Re: Re: Seeds Germinating

>Unless I'm confused, which happens frequently, you're advocating
>chilling seeds beginning about Jan 1 and either potting them or
>planting out in early spring.

Yes, correct, that is what I'm suggesting for those worried about freezing seedlings.

Chilling for 12 weeks and then planting the whole lot outside or in pots or individually as they sprout.  Whichever works for your set up and abilities can handle.

Although, for you Mary Lou, (being originally form Indianapolis myself and know the weather well) you might want to wait until February to start as it can still be very cold there in late March.  Unless of course you plan on providing some sort of frost/freeze protection.

>Have I got it right?  Do you soak, then chill?  How do you
>package them for chilling?

I soak/sterilize and then place in plastic bags (with holes) in the refridgerator about Thanksgiving and pot them up as each seed germinates (late Feb.) in collective pots in my plant room under flourescent lights. I later transplant them into bedding flat cell-packs and place them outside to harden off and get LARGER.  They get to be a nice size for transplanting and high surviveability rate.

I have NEVER had one seed germinate earlier than the twelve weeks for me and some crosses won't until they are cycled between 40 and 70 for a week or so (or longer).  After all that, those that don't germinate I then use the cutting method.


I had posted a detailed timeline and practice of my efforts months ago.

If anyone wants it again I can send it to them.. or gasp, post it again?

pharcher@mindspring.com

Paul Archer
Raleigh, NC Zone 7


-----Original Message-----
>From: Mary Swann-Young <MryL1@msn.com>
>Sent: Dec 16, 2006 5:51 PM
>To: iris <iris@hort.net>
>Subject: [iris] Re: Seeds Germinating
>

>

>
>Mary Lou, near Indianapolis, Z5
>
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