Soaking seeds in Bleach, how much/how long

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• To: s*@eskimo.com
• Subject: Soaking seeds in Bleach, how much/how long
• From: S* M* <s*@teleport.com>
• Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 16:19:54 -0700
• Resent-Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 16:23:10 -0700
• Resent-From: seeds-list@eskimo.com
• Resent-Message-ID: <"yQO9z.0.At3.TRl_r"@mx1>
• Resent-Sender: seeds-list-request@eskimo.com

Several internet articles suggest that soaking seeds in diluted
household bleach can help break down germination inhibitors, sterilize
the seed and soften the seed coat.  However, I have seen at least two
dilutions (1:9 and 1:19) and times ranging from 2 minutes to 4 hours.
Can someone clarify what is the best dilution and time for soaking seed
in diluted bleach?  All the web site references I found did agree on 3
to 5 changes of distilled water afterward to remove excess bleach.

Also, would a bleach soak be too dangerous to use on seed that has
already been scarified or would you suggest scarification on thicker
seed coats after the bleach soak treatment?  Suggestions anyone?

Steven McCauley
Portland, Oregon USA
NARGS
Zone 7

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