Seed ID set 2

A patient gave these to me and I have no idea what they are..
She gave them to me at least 2 seasons ago...will they still be viable?

They look like rose of sharon seeds. We have pods with seeds like those in our backyard.

They look a little more like Hibiscus moschatus or Hibiscus coccinea to me.

They may very well be Hibiscus and I don't have nay and I think that may be what she shared with me.

They are about 2 yrs old. will they germinate?

Whichever they are, Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus) or one of the other Hibiscus species, seed viability will largely depend on how they were stored. If they were not exposed to temperature extremes or humidity extremes they should germinate. You can sow more of them than you would normally sow to make up for any decline in viability.

They are definitely Hardy Hibiscus, more than likely Hibiscus moscheutos.

You can also check for viability by slicing through a very small amount on the rounded end, if the meat just beyond the seedcoat is white, they are probably viable. Next, soak the seed for a few hours in warm water and toss the seeds that don't sink, sow the rest. In other words, these seeds need to be nicked and soaked for faster germination, or fall sown.

Nicking the seeds is easier said than done. I've had some hibiscus seeds that I've tried to nick, I've even went to trying sandpaper, still can't get through the seed, so Robin do you think I should just forget about them?

How do you nick those round hard balls....LOL

Jan

Jan, you have to hold the seed down with the fingernail of of your forefinger and slice with a back and forward motion just taking off a slice on the rounded end. A sharp utility knife helps.

That's only if you want a fast germination. Otherwise, soak for 24 hrs in hand-hot water and fall sow or do the Deno method -- moist paper towel and baggie. This year I'm winter sowing.

ok will give that a try again, I did that but the one hibiscus seed will not be nicked....LOL
thanks so much

Jan

Jan I found this link about germination, your Hibiscus should be put in a baggie with moist paper towel and feeze for two months. Pull them out to room temp, make sure they stay moist and watch for germination. Should germinate in about 4 - 7 days after pulling grom the freezer.
http://davesgarden.com/community/forums/t/696517/

reading now, thanks so much Robin

Jan