Japanese Maple

[buddingbob]

I have been into bonsai for about
five years. I have a fig and an 8 year old Juniper. Decided to get adventurous so I bought 50 Japanese Maple seeds. They came with zero info on culturing the seeds. Can somebody steer me in the right direction about how to get these seed to germinate?
Thank you.

[Keels]

I've used this site. They detail in depth the process. Good luck.

https://japanesemaplelovers.com/growing ... from-seed/

Let us know how you go.

[wrcmad]

Here is how I do it with both Japanese and Trident seeds: https://www.ausbonsai.com.au/forum/view ... =9&t=27542

[shibui]

Just be aware that older, stored seed may have very low germination rates so if nothing grows it may not be your skill or technique to blame. Fresh seed germinates really well if you can source seed straight after harvest.

Not sure if you are aware that Japanese maples do not really like tropical climate. They may grow but will never grow to their full potential.
Best of luck with your seed.

[buddingbob]

Thanks for the advice, it looks a lot more complicated than I thought it would be. A challenge.

[pureheart]

Thanks for the advice, it looks a lot more complicated than I thought it would be. A challenge.

I planted in winter in a tray all the seeds I had ( more than 50 ) and left it outside and all seeds came through in spring. As long as you get some cold weather in your area you should be fine.


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[shibui]

Buddingbob is in Brisbane. Finding some cold weather could be a challenge

As these are purchased seed and may not be fresh enough for good germination I would recommend stratifying the seed in the fridge for better results.
Mix seed with sand, chopped sphagnum moss or similar to retain moisture in a plastic bag. Rinse the seed and sand/sphagnum with 1% hydrogen peroxide to kill bacteria and fungi. (Hydrogen peroxide from supermarket or pharmacy usually at 3% so diluted 2:1 with tap water). Allow to soak for a few minutes then squeeze out excess moisture, seal the bag and place into the crisper of the fridge for 4-6 weeks. Check every week or 2 that seeds have not started to germinate early. Sow in pot if they have. Some people don't bother to sanitise but I've seen and heard of too many mouldy seeds so the peroxide drench is worth doing I think.
Cold stratification simulates a cold winter and fools seeds into thinking winter has been.
After specified stratification time take the seeds out of the bag and sprinkle over some good potting mix then a 1cm layer of more potting mix to cover the seed (you can leave the sand or moss that's mixed with the seeds. It won't cause problems)
Keep just damp and

[buddingbob]

We do get down to around 15/9 during winter but that is a fair way off so the freezer is looking good. Thanks for the tip.