Re: Tree Peony Propagation

Ok, all you Paeonia propagation experts out there - my tree peony seeds have finally begun to germinate! I read in Druse's book that they require a two step germination process: first sending out a radicle, then needing a cold period (winter or simulated winter) before developing leaves. Well, I had them in a bag of damp peat moss and was about ready to give up on them after 5+ months, but when I checked today I saw a radicle! After a bit of excited rejoicing (maybe I won't give up on the cycad seeds either) it occurred to me that the second step may be problematic. I'm supposed to pot them up and place them in the refrigerator for 12 weeks, then when they come out, they should continue the germination process to sprout leaves -- right in the middle of fall! So what do I do then? I will have some very confused plants to get back on track. Guess the question is - should I / can I hold the seeds in the peat until fall, then pot them and refrigerate? Should I pot and refrigerate right away and then grow under lights all winter (means buying grow lights, but I need to do that anyway)? Will the anticipated plantlings then get themselves back in normal rhythm when I set them in the garden in spring after growing all winter?
Thanks,
Cathy

---------------------------------------------------------------------
To sign-off this list, send email to majordomo@hort.net with the
message text UNSUBSCRIBE GARDENCHAT

Other Mailing lists | Author Index | Date Index | Subject Index | Thread Index