Question
How do i start stella dora from seeds..I haven't had luck trying..

Thanksy

Answer
Hi Paul,
Thanx for your question.  Stella d'oro seeds are not hard to start but they can be tricky.  I have gotten them to germinate just by soaking them in water until the little white root emerges or just planting in soil. But, the seeds benefit from a cold treatment of anywhere from a couple of weeks to a month or two so I always opt for the cold treatment now for highest germination rates.  Place the seeds in a damp paper towel and put the towel in a baggie and seal it.  Place the baggie in the fridge for 2 months.  After that, plant the seeds in a pot and leave in a warm place (75F) and they will begin to germinate in 14-21 days sometimes a little longer.  The seedlings will look kind of like grass.  Wait until the seedlings are large enough to handle and then plant in separate cells.  After the last frost, take the seedlings outdoors and place the pots in a shaded, protected place for 10 days (to acclimate to the bright sun and outdoors).  After the hardening off (as it is called) plant the seedlings in full sun.  They may not resemble the parent plants exactly because they are hybrids.  I hope this helps.
Tom