I’m not getting very good germination from my rose seeds. I’ve tried cold stratification in the fridge, treating with dilute peroxide, sowing in pots in the autumn and leaving it to nature outside. But I reckon for every 10 seeds I sow I probably get one germination, not a very good percentage. I would greatly appreciate any tips.
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There are many variables which affect germination. Type of varieties or species can be a significant factor. Some types are real bears to germinate while others seem to sprout like grass. What you’re using to plant them in can also make a difference. Perhaps a fuller description of what you’re trying to germinate (moderns, species, etc and perhaps which ones); what you’re using as a planting mix; time of year and location may help others provide their best suggestions.
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I have decided phases of the moon and straight up voodoo are the predominant factors…
Seriously.
Some years I have gotten roughly 50% germinations from hundreds of seeds followed by zero the next year using the exact same parents.
Convince me I am wrong. Somebody. Anybody.
(Some parents do tend to give dud seeds, but I am assuming you speak from experience with multile batches using differebr parents. Also some species do appear to have different needs/tolerances for abuse.)
Following with interest..
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Unless your where liquid water will turn to 4” to 12” plus of ice on lakes in winters my experience not relative.
I started at zero, to minus, success rate for a few seasons for “hardy” rose varieties (-35C low snow cover winters). Out of zone rose hybridization and germination a grade 2 level discussion. I am at grade 1 and scratching into grade 2
Now slightly above zero germination, say <1-2% for hardy if l add into the denominator all varieties tried in a season. All variety numbers include just for a lark tries, iding good germinators using non crossed or ops ( that really worked for for crossing non-hardies (seed parent)) with hardies and odd ball crosses. Ploidy science came later for me to move from … crapshoot to 5 card stud poker.
Then there is germination rush episodes for some hardy single species and cross varieties.
Have hit 10% to 40% for single hardy varieties - but again when add all tried still very low number.
I’ve had success - but never consistent.
Started above zero success after threw out mist web based information and went back to my formal engineering training on using observations, fundamentals logic and some itty bitty of minor insignificant science. Paid attention to farmer “Bob” types and their historical records.
Listen and learned using a muted healthy, but not an arrogant obnoxious, level of skepticism if out of my paradigm. Always believe after l’ve tried it - not before unless l detect a sound basis.
All rooted in observing climate parameters, natural seedling germinations and observation from bald prairie Canadian pioneer historical giant step forward workers, and Finlanders.
Oh yeah forgot, bought a bunch of cheap tech devices to make it convenient to mimic nature in indoors in my zone both summer and winter.