Rowan Tree Seeds
(Sorbus aucuparia) Perennial. Zone 3. Native range—Europe. Rosaceae (Rose) Family.
Also known as European Mountain Ash, naturalized in parts of Canada. Can grow 20-40 feet tall. High tolerance to wind, great as a windbreak or shelter belt. White Spring blooms form into orange-red berries in late Summer, a rich food source for birds. The berries of Rowan Trees are also edible for humans, but only when cooked, making a nice tart jam. Long historical significance in mythology and folklore.
GROWING INSTRUCTIONS** Difficult
For best results, sow seeds outdoors in late Summer. Shady spot and mulch beds. If starting indoors...
SEED PRETREATMENT: Soak seeds in water for 24 hours. Then, mix seeds with moistened soil 4x seed volume. Place in a plastic bag or container.
STRATIFICATION: After soaking seeds, start 60 days warm/moist (20°C), the top of your fridge is a good spot for this, monitor for mold. Next, 120 days cold/moist (5°C), in your fridge is a good spot. Inspect periodically for even moisture.
POST-STRATIFICATION: Sow stratified seeds 1/4” deep. Alternating soil temperatures during the day (warmer than 20 °C) and night (cooler than 20°C) can help germination. Water evenly.
GERMINATION: When all previously mentioned requirements are fulfilled, germination generally occurs in 30-45 days.
Stratifying Seeds Naturally Outdoors in the Fall
How to Stratify Tree Seeds Indoors
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Available direct from Incredible Seeds, a Canadian Heirloom and Heritage Seed Company, offering only the best natural, non-GMO, open pollinated and untreated seeds, located in Mi'kma'ki / Nova Scotia.