Starting Wild Blueberries from Dried European Berries

Seed Extraction and Stratification

1. Remove seeds from dried berries (if not cooked/heated, seeds may be viable).
2. Place in damp paper towel, seal in plastic bag, refrigerate 90 days.
3. After cold period, press seeds into soil in a pot; place under 40-watt shop light 8 inches above.
4. Germination sporadic over 1–6 months. If none in 60 days, return to fridge 60 days, then warm again.
5. Prick out seedlings when handleable; harden off 10 days after last frost; plant in full sun.

Note on Hybrids

If berries are from hybrid cultivars, seedlings will be inferior. Wild blueberries produce true-to-type. Fruit in 2–3 years.