Job:07-61264 Title:RacePoint - Herb and Spice Companion
Dtp:VIVIAN Page:61264 - Herb and Spice Companion_001-145.indd 14 3/7/15 5:09 pm
(Text)HERB & SPICE COMPANION- 14 –
perennials) experience a dormant season every year, usually during winter; they need
this dormancy in order to complete their seasonal cycles and sprout new growth in
spring. If your seeds are dormant, their outer coating is hard and impermeable until
the dormancy ends.
In many cases, they'll need special treatment in order to break out and germinate.
These treatments are called stratification and scarification. The stratification process
simulates weather conditions that the seeds experience in their native climates. They’ll
remain dormant until this season runs its course; only then are they finally ready to
sprout. Stratification usually involves creating a cold and moist environment to simu-
late a winter spent in the ground: for example, two to three months of chilling in the
refrigerator in moistened sand, peat, or even a paper towel. (If stratifying can be done
in the ground during the actual winter season, all the better!) This process softens the
seeds’ hard coating and readies them for germination.
Scarification involves scratching or sanding dormant seeds in order to penetrate
their outer coating. Soaking seeds is another easy method for triggering germination;
many seeds require soaking in water overnight before they’re sown in soil.
Once seeds have successfully germinated, they can be sown in starter pots to
encourage seedling development. These should contain a healthy potting mix and be
treated to plenty of moisture and optimal temperatures for growth. Conditions will
vary depending on the herb, so follow your seeds’ instructions carefully. When the
seedlings are thriving and healthy, they’re ready to be transplanted to their permanent
spot in the ground or in a designated container. Some seedlings grow deep roots that
don’t take kindly to transplanting; these should be transplanted sooner rather than
later, before their roots fully develop. A good rule of thumb is to wait until two sets
of leaves appear before transplanting. Make sure the last frost has passed and the
garden soil is warm enough for your young plants.Job:07-61264 Title:RacePoint - Herb and Spice Companion
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