Magnolia Seed Germination: Stratify in Fridge, Not Freezer

Red magnolia seeds collected. Do they need freezing?

Stratification (Not Freezing)

1. Remove fleshy coat: soak overnight, rub on screen.
2. Store in sealed container at 32–41°F (fridge) 3–6 months.
3. Or: polyethylene bag with alternating moist sand/peat layers and seeds; refrigerate ~40°F.

Planting

• Spring: sow ¼″ deep, mulch, keep moist, partial shade first summer.
• Pot method: 1–2″ soil cover, warm (70–80°F), moist not wet. Sprouts in weeks–months.
• Transplant at 6–18″ to permanent site.

Easy germination. Don’t freeze—cold stratification in fridge is correct.