Growing Flowering Dogwood from Seed: Stratification Methods and Grafting for Pink Varieties

Seed Reality

99.9999% of seedlings from any dogwood (white or pink) will be white (Cornus florida). Pink, red, or variegated forms require grafting onto white seedling rootstock.

Seed Collection

• Seeds mature late summer (red color).
• Pick when they detach easily; don't let wildlife get them.
• Soak 1 week; rub to separate pulp. Viable seeds sink.
• Dry and store cool/dry until stratification.

Stratification Method 1 (210 Days)

1. Target planting date (e.g., May 15). Count back 210 days (~Oct 15).
2. Mix seeds with moist (not wet) peat moss or peat/sand in perforated plastic bag.
3. Room temp 105 days.
4. Refrigerate 105 days (not freezer).
5. Check weekly for fungus; treat if needed.
6. Plant when 10% germinate or after cold period.

Method 2 (Fall Planting)

1. Nick each seed in 2 places with knife after cleaning.
2. Plant immediately in fall.
3. Cover bed with screen against rodents.

Planting

• Sow on surface; cover with 1/4" soil.
• Water well; then allow to dry between waterings.
• Well-drained site essential.

Chinese Dogwood (Cornus kousa)

Same methods. Blooms late June with cream flowers against dark green foliage—distinctive mint-green effect.