try different methods ... surely you have enough to experiment with ... putting them all in one pot/container of soil ... can lead to one problem.. killing them all ... increase your odds by diversifying your options ... sterilize your soil first.. see link ... and if they sprouted in the dark.. harden them off to light properly ... or again ... try a few.. and if you kill them.. maybe you will succeed on the next batch ... ken Here is a link that might be useful: link

I planted a bunch of different kinds of western red cedars (some nobody knows what exactly they are) and one incense cedar. The incense cedar is a lighter brighter green and more fluffy and feathery. It's really cute! The incense cedar is supposed to be slower grower but mine is growing faster than the western red cedars did at first. The incense cedar just immediately took off with no transplant shock. It's breathtakingingly beautiful. Several of my western red cedars were in sad shape when planted; some's leaders had been cut off from drought death. But they've all come roaring back sarting this spring (planted December 2005) and especially since late August have been exhiting a tremendous growth spurt. Both the western red cedars and the incense cedars are exceedingly lovely trees.

T plicata may be in use as a shelter belt tree, or part of a plantation/wood lot. In neither situation would it be frequently pruned or shorn. If your preparation/s are just as effective using one of the more dwarf or coloured varieties then someone who has a 'conifer garden' may be able to help. Perhaps someone in the biodynamic movement could help as this plant is used in both herbal and homeopathic medicines. For directions to growers/suppliers.

What is your house color/material, OP? I came across this, read the comments — https://www.houzz.com/photos/anthony-street-house-traditional-exterior-dc-metro-phvw-vp~428303 Someone asked about getting a similar look with pine, the architect suggests a honey maple stain. Another, this is pine: https://www.houzz.com/photos/stained-wood-porch-ceiling-installed-by-opal-enterprises-in-naperville-traditional-chicago-phvw-vp~24091032 You might find inspiration looking through these albums: https://www.houzz.com/photos/stained-porch-ceiling-phbr0lbl-bl~l_143667 And yes, red cedar posts do need regular sealing, in my experience. I’ve had them nearly everywhere I’ve ever lived (very common here in Texas). We do ours once a year.