Winter Sowing and Stratification
Two Ways to Sow your Native Seeds in the Winter—
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1. Winter Sowing OutsideWinter is the optimal season for sowing native seeds! Michigan native plants are naturally adapted to live in a Michigan climate, which brings periods of freezing temperatures. For optimal germination, many types of native seeds require exposure to cold, moist winter conditions in order to germinate and grow well. This process is called “stratification.” For the best results, we recommend sowing your native seeds into protected containers and keeping them outside through the winter. Think of them like mini-greenhouses. This gives your seeds the best chance for germination and the plants will grow and bloom better during the growing season. Where can you get local native seeds in Rochester?
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Easy Winter Sowing Instructions Using Materials That You Have Around The House
Tap the link below for a printable PDF of the pictured instructions: https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0388/4731/6107/files/file.pdf?v=1639420775
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2. Stratification of Seeds |
If you did not sow your seeds in containers outside in January or February (instructions above), you must simulate stratification for a period of time before you plant in the spring. No worries! It is easy! Below you will find a link to a printable PDF that offers simple instructions by tapping on the link above the pictured instructions: |
Please don't hesitate to reach out to us with questions! pollinators@trentcreative.com |
More Great Winter Sowing Resources! |
The Wild Seed Project
Wild Seed Project's Guide:
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Video: Winter Sowing Native Plants with the Expert |
The following video by Pennsylvania based gardener and pollinator advocate, Heather Andrews (Garden Thoughtfully) offers some great tips for using recycled containers, like gallon milk jugs for your winter sowing project. NOTE: The video comes out of Pennsylvania, but the timing is basically the same for us here in SE Michigan. However, the resources they mention for getting seeds are NOT for SE Michigan. Please see our Resources page or our Locally Sown seed library for local native seeds! |