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Post by bpullin on Nov 3, 2008 2:03:52 GMT
Hi,
Please be patient with me, but I really need to ask this stupid question. I know that some plants have seeds that won't germinate until certain conditions are met, such as being exposed to fire or frost. Now, I've seen it posted in many areas about seed stratification, especially for Sarracenia. It makes perfect sense, especially for northern species. My stupid question is: How do seeds from southern species germinate if there isn't any prolonged exposure to cold? South Georgia, Alabama and Florida don't experience any period of cold equivalent to the 3 months in a refrigerator some recommend. A lot of those areas may not experience any real cold snaps all season.
So, is refrigeration really necessary? Or is it sufficient to just sow the seeds in pots and keep them outside for the winter, even if the winter is mild?
Thank you for your patience.
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Post by Aidan on Nov 3, 2008 2:37:52 GMT
Take a look at the paper referenced by John Brittnacher in this earlier thread - icps.proboards105.com/index.cgi?board=sarracenia&action=display&thread=940&page=1In essence (for Sarracenia) the results are what one would logically expect - i.e. the more northerly the range, the longer the stratification required to achieve optimal germination. I have never fridge stratified any seed as I have a suitable climate to use the "all natural method" - sow in winter and let nature take its course.
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Post by bpullin on Nov 6, 2008 1:51:16 GMT
Thank you Aidan. I guess I should try again. Refrigeration has never worked for me. I was gifted a nice seed pod from S. Mitchelliana grown locally. Now I have a nice little project for this weekend. It would be great if Sarrs were as easy as VFTs.
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Post by Aidan on Nov 6, 2008 2:29:25 GMT
I have just been looking at climate data for your area and it looks pretty much ideal for cold stratification of Sarracenia seed. Try sowing seed sometime around new year and see what happens in the spring!
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