Germination Success For Scabiosa Caucasica

Question

I have had a mauve Scabiosa Caucasica for at least 10 years. It is one of my favourite perennials. However, I have never been successful in germination of its seeds. Since they never germinate in the garden, I’ve tried planting them in doors, under lights etc. But never any success. Do I need to cold stratify? They are not included in the article on your web site for seeds requiring cold stratification. Also, to cold stratify, is it necessary (a) that the seeds be soaked and (b) placed in a medium mixture of sand and peat when refrigerated? Could I just use a seedless soil mix?

Answer 1

They don't need cold stratification, according to seed companies. Plant them indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. They need light to germinate so barely cover with seed starter mix. After the first true leaves appear, you can transplant to cell paks. Have you tried covering the seeds with plastic after their initial watering? They will form a mini greenhouse and you won't have to water so much. Soil should be moist till germination. After the seeds germinate, you can remove the plastic.