I have seeds from a Mexican Flame Tree

The beans are 12 inches long and are very hard;The seed are also hard I was told to scratch the outside of the seed so they can germinate; Does anyone know if I should soak the seeds before planting; What do I scratch the seeds with a knife they are very hard;
If any of you know the answers please write me back

how about sand paper?

I usually chip or rub the seed with nail clips,a nail file or sandpaper like Joanna said. Then soak the seed overnight before planting.

Does it matter where you sand the seed?

Do you sand thru the outer coating until there is a color change or is this too deep?

Jerry

I'm not sure what Flame Tree seed looks like but try to sand on a smooth part of the seed and away from any little bumps where it looks like the root might sprout from. If you had a picture of the seed I could be more specific. Also I always sand till theres a colour change. If the seed coat is very hard and thick I'd sand till you start to see a tiny speck of white.

Hope this helps!