Germinating Cedar Seeds from Cones: Stratification and Planting

Extract seeds: Soak cones in warm water to open, or pry open. Seeds resemble large brown sunflower kernels.

Stratify: Place seeds in damp paper towel, fold, seal in plastic bag, refrigerate 90 days. No need to re-moisten if bag is sealed.

Plant: Sow 1 inch deep in deep pots, keep warm, watered but not soggy. Seedlings emerge in weeks. Transplant when sturdy.

Your cones from St. Louis Zoo (soft needles, cylindrical clusters) likely from a Cedrus species.

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