Propagation: Too late for zone 5- seed stratification?, 1 by

wrote:
edge
You are correct---with some perennials. Not all need stratification. Gaillardia (Blanket Flower), Hibiscus, Delosperma (Ice plant) are some that don't.

Stratification isn't necessarily days of flunctuating temperature. Some varieties do because they have double dormancy such as Clematis and varieties of Penstemons. Others need warmth first, then freezing and will sprout when placed again in warmer temp, such as Oenothera.

In contrast, others need cold treatment first, then warmth to sprout, such as hardy Geraniums, Iris, and Daylilies.

Stratification can also be done in the refrigerator. I used a moist kitchen paper towel to sprout all my seeds, both in and out of the refrigerator. I stratified Clematis and Geraniums that way. The Clematis seeds have been in and out of the fridge twice and finally got one to sprout yesterday. I also use my coldframe to sow larger seeds during the fall season, to sprout when condition in spring is right for the seeds I sowed.

And since we live in a modern age with refrigeration, it is never too late to start seeds.

CAPTION: All these seedlings sprouted in a paper napkin, then transplanted to seeding mix, and some into 3" pots.