How to Germinate Apple Seeds in Paper Towels
When apple seeds germinate in a natural setting, they go through a stratification period of cold temperatures -- a standard winter season. After the winter ends, apple seeds then warm. The warmth brings the seeds out of dormancy to germinate. Germinate apple seeds in paper towels to recreate the cold stratification period necessary for the seeds to break dormancy. After the seeds germinate, they're ready to grow outside. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Stack two paper towels on top of each other.
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Fold the paper towels in half by bringing the bottom edges up to meet the top edges. Crease the fold and open the paper towels again flat.
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Mist the paper towels with the spray bottle until completely damp.
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Place the apple seeds onto the paper towels, spacing the seeds about 2 inches apart in a line, about halfway between the top edge and the fold line.
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Fold the paper towels again along the fold line, and place the folded paper towels into the plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag and seal it tightly.
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Place the plastic bag into the refrigerator. Store the seeds in the refrigerator for about five to six weeks.
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Remove the bag from the refrigerator every two to three days and mist the paper towels again to keep them evenly moist.
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Remove the bag from the refrigerator after the four weeks elapse. Open the bag and remove the paper towels. Unfold the paper towels to see the germinated apple seeds.
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Tips & Warnings
Plant the apple seeds in small containers and allow them to grow indoors until they reach at least 4 inches in height. Harden the seeds off to the outdoors by placing them outside for a few hours each afternoon over a one-week period. After this hardening-off period, transplant the seedlings outside in the soil.
References
- Photo Credit Brand X Pictures/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
