Re: HYB: cold stratification

In a message dated 1/13/2006 11:50:30 A.M. Central Standard Time,  
jbruce1@cinci.rr.com writes:

<<I have always heard that iris seeds need a cold period and lots  of water to
germinate. Where did the "cold" part  originate? >>
John,
 
Can't answer this question.  
 
Most of what I "think" I know comes from reading publications (and talking  
to hybridizers.)  One thing that stuck in my mind, early on, was reading  about 
Neva Sexton putting seed in the crisper of her refrigerator (burrito?)  
because they wouldn't get cold enough in CA.  If my memory is correct on  the 
'crisper' part, freezing temperatures may not be necessary.  I've had  seasons 
where there were few really cold temperatures, but I still had seed that  
germinated.
 
Soaking is recommended for beet seed and other large seed.  I have  seed from 
bee pods held over this year.  If I can remember it I'll try the  soak and 
plant method you mention.    
 
I can't imagine that I'd want 55 bags of pantyhose in my toilet  tanks!  The 
children already think I'm around the bend at times!   <vbg>  But might be a 
worthy alternative if we could get 90+  germination the first year on key 
crosses.  Definitely would have  merit.  
 
 
 

Betty W. in  South-central KY Zone 6
Bridge In Time Iris Garden@website:
_www.thegardensite.com/irises/bridgeintime/_ 
(http://www.thegardensite.com/irises/bridgeintime/) 
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