🫘 Seeds
I swore I would not attempt to grow seeds again, until my last attempt of Cork Bark Elm and Larch actually germinated.
Japanese Hornbeam (Carpinus Japonica):
Scarification: Soak in water, let stand in water for 24 hours
Stratification: warm stratify for 60 days, cold stratify for 90 days
Germination: sow seed 1/4" deep, tamp the soil, mulch the seed bed
Japanese Black Pine (Pinus Thunbergii):
Japanese Red Pine (Pinus Densiflora):
Oct 2023 germinated and many sprouted after cold stratification. Planted in sand:gravel:peat.
Seed experience:
Black and red pines do, however, benefit from brief stratification. Stratification can be achieved by refrigerating seeds before planting. Place the seeds in a plastic bag with a moist paper towel or some shredded white sphagnum moss to preserve humidity.
I typically leave black pine seeds in the refrigerator for about a week and red pine seeds for 1-3 weeks. I’ve found the stratified seeds sprout faster and more consistently than the non-stratified seeds by a wide margin – try it and see how it works for you. —Jonas D
All but 2-3 seeds sank with scarification, but included them (but will not expect them to germinate). Pine seeds will cold stratification for 2 weeks.
Second round Cork Bark Elm—cold stratification and seedlings as early as July 9. Potted 4 and placed in a partial shade. Returned unsprouted seeds to the mini-fridge. Potting soil below, filter coupon then soil on top 1/2” to encourage lateral growth. Will trim tap root later and repot again in a month.
