Sowing Seeds: Beyond the Basics

Each year, I love experimenting with new plants, whether for the medicinal herbs garden or for my yard. However, I've encountered a few that are particularly challenging to germinate and grow to a transplantable size. One such plant schisandra (Schisandra chinensis). This "challenge" prompted me to conduct extensive research this year as I attempt to grow schisandra from seed once more. Here’s some valuable information I discovered that could be helpful if you plan to start seeds indoors early.

The team at J.L. Hudson Seeds has crafted an incredibly detailed article titled "How to Germinate Seed." They've successfully created an easy-to-follow guide while introducing methods I hadn't encountered before.

One common technique for seeds with tough coats is known as "nicking." I found the suggestion from Seed Savers to use fingernail clippers to be brilliant, so I used that method on my schisandra seed after soaking it for a couple of days. It turned out to be surprisingly simple, and perhaps this will be the year I see some schisandra sprouts emerge!

Another typical seed preparation method is scarification, which involves roughening the coat to weaken it and enhance its permeability, thereby boosting the chances of germination. This year, I used the sandpaper technique shown in this YouTube video to scarify mimosa seeds, a new addition to my garden. I'm hopeful for success with the 20 seeds I purchased from Strictly Medicinal Seeds, my preferred source for medicinal herb seeds and plants. Richo Cech, the company's owner, shares valuable insights on growing and utilizing his medicinal herbs on his blog page, including a review of different types of tulsi (holy basil) that you should consider planting this year.

The other seed company I frequently rely on is Richters Herbs, which has recently updated their website. For excellent insights on cultivating and utilizing medicinal herbs, visit their Explore tab and navigate to the Resources section. In addition to Strictly Medicinal Seeds, they offer detailed growing information for each on their ordering pages.

If you're a newcomer to medicinal herb gardening and unsure about what to plant this year, take a look at my earlier post, "Medicinal Herb Garden Must-Haves." As always, don’t hesitate reach out with any questions.

Added on 4/11/25:

Prairie Moon Nursery, my go-to source for native Minnesota plants, just sent out this handy list of plants that don't need pretreatment. Check it out for some great options in that regard!