Question
We are going to start seeds under grow lights for a home school project for catalpa and mimosa trees.  Is it alright to start them for spring planting and when would would start them?  What seed preparation do we need.  Any information is appreciated.  Thank you

Answer
Hi Cody,
Thanx for your question.  Mimosa seeds do not need any special treatment.  They are members of the legume (bean/pea) family and they will germinate in 5-10 days at 75F.  Just press them into the soil in a pot of seedflat and lightly cover with soil.  Keep moist but not soggy.  When the plants are about 3 inches tall, gently prick them out of the soil with a pencil and plant them in separate pots.  They are quick growers and can reach 4-5 feet tall in one season.

Some sources say catalpa seed requires some cold stratification, others say it doesn't.  To be on the safe side, plant the seeds under 1 inch of soil in moist, not soggy potting soil and seal the pot inside a plastic bag.  Leave it in the fridge for 6-8 weeks or leave outside for 6-8 weeks during extended temps below 40 F.  The seeds will germinate in the spring if left outdoors or a few weeks after you bring the pot out of the fridge and subject it to 70-75 F temps.  Prick seedlings out after they have a couple sets of true leaves and pot in separate pots.

I hope this helps.
Tom