DATE:   10/31/96
WRITER: Bob Polomski, (864)656-2604

Propagating Flowering Dogwood From Seed

     Q.  Can you tell me how to propagate flowering dogwood from
seed? 
     A.  Harvest ripe seeds in late summer when the fruits begin
to color up and when the seed pops out when you pinch the fruit
between your thumb and forefinger. Pinch the seeds out and wash
off any remaining pulp.
     Plant them outdoors in the fall or stratify the seeds at 40
degrees Fahrenheit to overcome embryo dormancy for 3 to 4 months.
Place the seeds in a plastic bag containing moist sphagnum moss,
and put them in a refrigerator (40 degrees Fahrenheit). Mark the
date on the bag and on your calendar before placing the bag in
the refrigerator. Check the bag periodically and moisten the
medium if it gets dry. If you see any sprouted seeds, remove them
carefully, taking care not to break the radicle or developing
root, and pot them up.
     After 3 or 4 months have passed, take the bag out of the
refrigerator and plant the seeds in a flat or pot containing
equal parts of peat moss and perlite. Move the container to a
location receiving bright, indirect sunlight. Expect the seeds to
germinate in 2 to 3 weeks. After the last freeze in your area, 
harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor
conditions. Then transplant them in a well-drained site that
receives morning sun and afternoon shade. It may take several
years, perhaps six or seven, before these seedlings will flower.
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     If you have gardening questions or comments, write to 
Agricultural News & Publications, A-101 Poole Agricultural
Center, Box 340311, Clemson University, Clemson, S.C. 29634-0311.
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