*Seeds require 30 DAYS of cold, moist stratification before seeds will grow

Cold moist conditions allow seed coats to soften and allow absorption of water, which is the beginning of the germination process. It has been found that different species need different lengths of time in cold moist conditions to maximize germination. The number after the CM indicates the the number of days of stratification typically required. Cold moist stratification can be accomplished by placing your seed in a refrigerator in a sealed plastic bag with a moist (not dripping wet) new clean sponge or paper towel for the required time.  You can also use a sterile silica sand vermiculite as a moisture carrier. Check you seed frequently by looking at it without opening the bag. There should be no mold or fungus present.

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Another easy way to mimic winter is to actually use the winter. Sow seed in trays on the north side of  structure so they do not get winter sun. Cover them with screen to keep hungry critters out and let the snow pile up. As temperatures fluctuate throughout the season, the seed will stratify under actual conditions. You can also sow directly into the soil in the winter, this is called a frost seeding. This method of planting has been done by humans for generations and works very well.