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Stratification in warmer climates (Cornwall)

CornishClareCornishClare Posts: 60
in Plants

hi all,

I have decided this year to try to germinate some of the more tricky hardy perennials (monks hood, Astrantia Major, hellebore ect).

as they say plant in winer or early spring I have sown them in my cold greenhouse in half seed trays  covered in grit (currently in love with Carol Klein! ) 

Just a bit concerned that they will not get stratified in my conditions in Cornwall, should I put them in the fridge or leave nature to do its thing? 

Any advice welcomed????

Clare x 

 

 

Posts

  • ObelixxObelixx Posts: 30,064

    Take them out of the greenhouse and let them get any cold and frosts going.  If none appear by the end of Feb you could try chilling them in the fridge for a couple of weeks.

    Vendée - 20kms from Atlantic coast.
    "The price good men (and women) pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men (and women)."
    Plato
  • CornishClareCornishClare Posts: 60

    Thanks, will try that, just thought the green house would keep them out of the cornish damp, will look at someehere in between.

    cheers  Clare 

  • nutcutletnutcutlet Posts: 27,445

    I had to resort to the fridge last winter. The success rate wasn't as good as usual.

    I think the changes in temperature are helpful. If we get another mild winter I'll have themi n and out of the fridge, a few days in the freezer, back in the garden in rotation. 

    It won't be a problem this year, temperatures are very up and down and we've had some good frosts



    In the sticks near Peterborough
  • Joyce GoldenlilyJoyce Goldenlily Posts: 2,933

    I have astrantias growing in my garden like weeds. They self sow to nuisance level so I do not think they need any extra help down here in Cornwall.

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