This guide provides recommendations for the germination of over 8800 seeds listed in the seed exchange of the Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society between 1995 and 2024. For each species, a single germination technique has been chosen from several successful approaches for dry seed stored 6 months @ 20°C, except where noted.

While this data is based primarily on the experience of ORG&HPS members, we have relied extensively on methods described by Norman Deno. His publications can be found here:

Norman Deno Seed Germination: Introduction

Norman Deno Seed Germination: First Supplement 

Norman Deno Seed Germination: Second Supplement

We also utilize germination information from Dr. Pavel Slaby (https://flora.kadel.cz/), Tom Clothier (http://tomclothier.hort.net) and Gene Mirro, an authority on lilies. We are continuing to collect complete data on many species.

This section contains:

• Germination Guide Plant List
• Germination Guide Overview
• Use of GA3
• Germination Codes

Please send additional information about germination or suggestions for improving this guide to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.