Witch Hazel Plant Seeds: Guide to Storing, Sowing and Germination

Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), is a deciduous shrub that produces fragrant, yellow flowers in fall and winter. The plant is native to North America and has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. The witch hazel plant seeds are relatively easy to collect, store, and grow. In this article, we will guide you through the process of storing, sowing, and germinating witch hazel plant seeds.

Storing Witch Hazel Plant Seeds

Witch hazel seeds are contained in a woody capsule that splits open when mature. You can collect the seeds from the ground or directly from the plant after the capsule has split open. It’s essential to collect the seeds when they are mature because immature seeds will not germinate.

To store witch hazel plant seeds, follow these steps:

1. Clean the seeds: Remove any debris, twigs or leaves from the seed pod. Rinse the seeds with cool water and let them air dry for a day or two.
2. Label and store the seeds: Once dry, place the seeds in a labeled paper envelope or a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Stored correctly, witch hazel plant seeds can remain viable for up to two years.

Sowing Witch Hazel Plant Seeds

Witch hazel plant seeds require cold stratification before planting to break their dormancy. Cold stratification is a process of exposing seeds to cold temperatures to simulate winter conditions that trigger germination in spring.

Here’s how to sow witch hazel plant seeds:

1. Prepare the soil: Choose a site with well-draining soil that receives partial shade or full sun. The soil should be rich in organic matter and slightly acidic with a pH level between 4.5 and 6.5. Mix the soil with sand or perlite to improve drainage.
2. Cold stratify the seeds: Place the seeds in a moist paper towel or a plastic bag filled with moist peat moss. Seal the container and place it in the refrigerator for 60 to 90 days. Check the moisture level periodically and add water if necessary.
3. Sow the seeds: After the cold stratification period, remove the seeds from the container and sow them in a prepared planting hole that’s twice as deep as the seed’s size. Cover the seed with soil, water it gently, and mulch around it to retain moisture.

Witch hazel plant seeds typically germinate in 30 to 60 days.

Germinating Witch Hazel Plant Seeds

Here are some tips for germinating witch hazel plant seeds:

1. Water regularly: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Too much water can cause fungal growth that can kill seedlings.
2. Provide adequate light: Witch hazel plant seeds require partial shade or full sun to grow.
3. Fertilize sparingly: Wait until the seedlings have grown several sets of true leaves before fertilizing. Use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20.

FAQ

Can witch hazel plant seeds be planted directly in the ground without cold stratification?

No, witch hazel plant seeds require cold stratification to break their dormancy and improve their germination rate.

When is the best time to collect witch hazel plant seeds?

The best time to collect witch hazel plant seeds is in late summer or early fall when they are mature and start falling off the tree.

How long does it take for witch hazel plant seeds to germinate?

Witch hazel plant seeds typically germinate in 30 to 60 days after planting.

Can witch hazel plants grow in containers?

Yes, witch hazel plants can grow in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system. Use well-draining soil and water regularly.

How tall does a mature witch hazel plant grow?

A mature witch hazel plant can grow up to 20 feet tall and wide, depending on the cultivar.