To properly store apple seeds for successful germination, you need to mimic their natural winter environment through a process called stratification. This involves storing the seeds dry in a sealed container under cold conditions.
Here's a detailed guide:
1. Preparation:
- Harvesting Seeds: Extract seeds from a ripe apple. Ensure they are plump and brown; white seeds are usually not viable.
- Cleaning: Rinse the seeds thoroughly to remove any remaining apple pulp. This prevents mold growth during storage.
- Drying: Allow the seeds to air dry completely for a few days. Spread them out on a paper towel in a well-ventilated area, turning them occasionally. They should be dry to the touch.
2. Stratification (Cold Storage):
- Container: Place the dried apple seeds in a sealed container. A plastic bag or a small airtight container works well.
- Temperature: The ideal temperature range for stratification is between 4.4°C and 10°C (40°F and 50°F), with the optimum being 4.4°C - 5°C (40°F - 41°F).
- Location: Store the sealed container in your refrigerator. Avoid placing it near fruits that produce ethylene gas (like apples themselves), as this can inhibit germination. An unheated garage or shed that stays within the correct temperature range might also work in some climates.
- Duration: Stratify the seeds for 70-80 days. This cold period is crucial for breaking seed dormancy.
3. Monitoring:
- While it is ideal to store the seeds dry, it's important to very lightly mist the medium (paper towel, vermiculite, or peat moss) in the container if it appears completely dried out during the stratification period. The goal is to keep the seeds from completely drying out but not to keep them soaking wet.
Summary of Apple Seed Storage:
Step | Description |
---|---|
1. Harvest & Clean | Extract seeds, remove pulp, and rinse thoroughly. |
2. Dry | Air dry seeds until they are dry to the touch. |
3. Container | Place dry seeds in a sealed container (plastic bag or airtight container). |
4. Stratify | Store in refrigerator (4.4°C - 10°C) for 70-80 days. |
By following these steps, you can significantly increase the chances of successfully germinating your apple seeds. Remember that apple trees grown from seed will not necessarily produce the same type of apples as the parent tree.