Starting native plants from seed is a fun and cost-effective way to add more plants to your garden. Compared to vegetable gardening, it does take a few extra steps to germinate native plant seeds but with the right tips and tricks you will have seedlings in no time!
Different species need different water, temperature, and light conditions to break their dormancy and germinate. Native plant seeds typically like to experience the seasons - cold, wet winters and warm springs. There are many different ways to start native plant seeds and you can reference germination codes to learn about the specific conditions each species needs to germinate. |
There are many of online resources full of information and tips for growing native species. Some examples:
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Seed Starting Methods
Three ways to start native plant seeds include direct sowing, artificial stratification, and winter sowing. Don't be afraid to experiment and find a way to start seeds that works best for you - gardening is an art after all!
Direct Sowing
Sow the seeds outside in the fall or spring, depending on the germination code, directly onto the soil at the recommended depth. Keep the soil moist as needed. Mark the area so you remember where you sowed your seeds!
Artificial Stratification (Fridge & Freezer)
If you'd like a little more control over starting your species that need a cold moist period, the fridge and freezer are handy tools. They can be used to mimic the cold outdoor temperatures, and can expediate the germination process a bit if you're running behind on seed starting. Add your seeds to a moist seed starting medium (seed starting mix, sand, paper towels, etc.) and place them in a seal container in the fridge or freezer for the number of days indicated, then sow them outside or follow any additional instructions.
Winter Sowing
Winter sowing is a way to start seeds outdoors over the winter in makeshift mini greenhouses, allowing the seeds to experience the cold winter and warm spring in a sheltered place away from critters and harsh weather. A short how-to is included below, or you can read Bev Wagar's in-depth 3-part series.
Direct Sowing
Sow the seeds outside in the fall or spring, depending on the germination code, directly onto the soil at the recommended depth. Keep the soil moist as needed. Mark the area so you remember where you sowed your seeds!
Artificial Stratification (Fridge & Freezer)
If you'd like a little more control over starting your species that need a cold moist period, the fridge and freezer are handy tools. They can be used to mimic the cold outdoor temperatures, and can expediate the germination process a bit if you're running behind on seed starting. Add your seeds to a moist seed starting medium (seed starting mix, sand, paper towels, etc.) and place them in a seal container in the fridge or freezer for the number of days indicated, then sow them outside or follow any additional instructions.
Winter Sowing
Winter sowing is a way to start seeds outdoors over the winter in makeshift mini greenhouses, allowing the seeds to experience the cold winter and warm spring in a sheltered place away from critters and harsh weather. A short how-to is included below, or you can read Bev Wagar's in-depth 3-part series.
- Pick a container that is clear or opaque plastic, easy to cut through, and with space for 4 inches of seed starting mix plus room for plants to grow. Ex. water jugs, 2L bottles, plastic containers.
- Add drainage and ventilation holes to the bottom and top of the container, remove the lid, and cut the container 4-5 inches from the bottom (cut clean off or leave a hinge). Alternatively, some people have had success using freezer-sized Ziploc bags with added drainage holes.
- Add 4 inches of seed starting mix to the bottom half and add your seeds, following the sowing instructions.
- Label the container and tape the two halves shut, then place outside in a sunny, sheltered area that will still be exposed to the elements.
- As the temperatures warm up, water as needed and open the container during the day as the seedlings grow.
Germination Codes
Germination codes tell us the right pre-treatment or sowing instructions needed for each species to grow, usually indicated by numbers and/or letters. Note that germination codes are not universal, so always check the definitions provided by the source. We have adapted the germination codes below from Prairie Moon Nursery.
A: No Pre-Treatment
Sow the seeds in a warm location - outside in spring or indoors at room temperature. B: Hot Water Treatment Pour boiling hot water over the seeds and let them soak for 24 hours before following additional sowing instructions. C(#): Cold Moist Stratification The seeds need to experience the temperature and moisture changes of winter. Sow the seeds outside in the fall, or place in the fridge with moist seed starting mix for the number of days indicated (#) then sow outdoors or at room temperature. D: Small Seeds / Need Light Sow the seeds onto the surface of the soil, leaving uncovered or adding a very thin layer of seed starting mix. E: Warm-Cold Moist Stratification The seeds need to experience the temperature and moisture changes of summer and winter. Sow the seeds either a) outside in the spring and wait one year, or b) start indoors in a warm place for 60-90 days, move to the fridge for 60-90 days, then sow outdoors or at room temperature. |
F: Double Dormancy
The seeds need to experience the temperature and moisture changes of summer and two winters. Sow the seeds either a) outdoors in the spring and wait two years, or b) start the seeds in the fridge for 60-90 days, move to a warm place for 60-90 days, move back to the fridge for 60-90 days, then sow outdoors or at room temperature. G: Cool Soil Sow the seeds outdoors in late fall or early spring. H: Scarification The seed coat must first be weakened by rubbing the seeds with sandpaper or a file. I: Legumes Species in the legume family need to grow with beneficial bacteria called rhizobia, which is usually found in the soil but can also be purchased and added. M: Sow Outdoors in the Fall Directly sowing the seeds outdoors in the fall works better than artificial stratification. |
Beginner-Friendly Species
If it is your first time growing native plants from seed, try one of these species that requires either no treatment (A) or cold moist stratification C(#). Mark the area, sow your seeds in fall, and walk away until spring!
Wildflowers
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Shrubs
Grasses
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