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Multi-Fruit Tree Seed Propagation: Universal Cold Stratification Protocol

Pear, Apple, Cherry, Peach, Nectarine, Apricot: Shared Requirements

All temperate fruit trees (Rosaceae) require cold stratification. Southwest Washington winters provide this naturally.

Universal Outdoor Method

Plant seeds 1 inch deep in pots
Leave outdoors all winter
Water if no regular precipitation
Spring emergence = success
Plant in permanent spot by summer
Mulch first 2 winters

Indoor Alternative

Damp paper towel in sealed bag, refrigerate 60-90 days. Then pot up. Germination erratic over weeks to months.

Critical Caveats

Store fruit = hybrids = seedlings won't match parents
Fruit in 5-7 years typically
Deep South/California need low-chill varieties
Cross-pollination needed for most (except peach/nectarine/apricot)

Experimental Value

Fun project, genetic lottery. For reliable fruit, buy grafted trees of known cultivars adapted to your zone.

Seeding and Propagation: Starting Peach & Cherry Trees from Seed: Realistic Expectations & Step-by-Step Guide; Understanding Fruit Quality from Hybrid Seeds; Will Store-Bought Fruit Seeds Produce Fruit?; Propagating Heirloom Cherry Trees from 100-Year-Old Seeds; Fruit Trees from Store-Bought Seeds: Hybrid Reality Check; Growing Pear Trees and Magnolias from Seed: Stratification Tips; Germinating Cherry Seeds: Cold Stratification for Successful Sprouting; Understanding Apple Seedling Variability from Compost Volunteers; Stratifying Plum Seeds for Germination; Growing Apple Trees from Seed in the Philippines: Tropical Challenges

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