Stratifying Cleome Seeds in Your Kitchen Freezer

Overview

Cleome (spider flower) seeds need stratification—simulated winter—to break dormancy. It’s a simple kitchen process.

Step 1: Soak 24 Hours

Seeds in bowl of water on counter.

Step 2: Prepare Freezer Container

Rectangular, 2 in. deep ideal. Bottom: ½ in. wet (not slushy) sand.

Step 3: Layer Seeds

Spread seeds on sand. Cover with another ½ in. wet sand.

Step 4: Freeze & Refrigerate

Freeze 4 weeks. Then move to refrigerator until sowing time.

Why It Works

Temperature shift signals the embryo to wake up. Mimics natural winter‑spring transition.