Germinating Rose Seeds from 'John Cabot' Hips: Viability and Method

Jeanne (Zone 4a) found hips on her 'John Cabot' (Canadian Explorer climber) in winter, extracted seeds, and soaked them. Jay's guidance:

Viability Assessment

• Seeds likely viable—hips experienced natural cold stratification.
• Water float test is unreliable.
• Damp paper towel test is the only true check.

Proper Stratification & Germination

1. Remove seeds from water (causes fungal damping-off).
2. Place in damp paper towel with 1 tsp hydrogen peroxide per cup water.
3. Seal in container; refrigerate 1–3 months.
4. Check for radicle (root) emergence.
5. Pot up seedlings under grow lights.

Important Caveat

'John Cabot' has heavy Rosa kordesii background—extremely hardy but seeds can be difficult to germinate. Seedlings won't be 'John Cabot' (hybrids don't come true from seed).