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when to plant seed mix

21 years ago

Hi there!

I live in Southern California and last fall I ordered the "shady seed mix" from the Theodore Payne Foundation. Before I could plant any, I had to move house and forgot about it. Now I wonder if there is any point in sowing them as late as now. On the package it says they can be sown until late winter. I guess I missed that. Should I try anyway? Could I make up for being late by watering them a lot?

I would be thrilled if someone experienced could give me any tips!

Thank you,

Hoverfly

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Comments (2)

cjlambert
21 years ago
The reason many seeds need to be sown in fall or winter is that they need cold stratification in order to germinate. Of course, your zone may not provide that, even in winter, and the mix you have probably is geared more for your less-than-temperate climate. Do you know specifically what is in the mix? Knowing that is critical for knowing how to provide for germination.

I'm not familiar with the Theodore Payne Foundation, being as I'm from Oklahoma. :) But, I'm making an assumption that these seeds are for locally native plants. Is that a correct assumption? If so, that is a very cool thing.

Peace,
Carol
hoverfly
Original Author
21 years ago
Carol,
that's really interesting! Thank you!
And, yes: the TPF is all about California natives.
My mix contains:
Elegant Clarkia
Farewell To Spring (Clarkia amoena)
Chinese Houses (Collinsia hererophylla
Five Spot (Nemophila maculata)
Baby Blue Eyes

Also, it does still get quite cool at night - temperatures in the mid to upper 40s. Maybe I should just try my luck and hope something will grow. What do you think?

Hoverfly
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cold stratification?

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