Growing Mountain Ash from Seed: Overcoming Dormancy with Cold Stratification

Mountain Ash Seed Germination

Mountain ash seeds often require cold stratification to break dormancy. While some sources say bird digestion is needed, artificial stratification works:

1. Soak seeds 24 hours in lukewarm water.
2. Plant ⅛ inch deep in moist potting soil.
3. Seal pot in a plastic bag; refrigerate 120 days.
4. Move to warm area; seedlings emerge in up to 6 weeks.

Alternatively, sow directly outdoors in a seed bed in fall for natural spring germination.