Seeds require a “cold stratification” (cold treatment) before they will germinate. To start seeds in the spring, mix the seeds into moist sand, peat moss (or paper towel) and place in a sealed plastic bag and place in the refrigerator for 6-8 weeks before planting outdoors May-July. Alternatively, sow seeds outside in late summer, fall or early spring (before March 1st) so they are naturally exposed to the cold. Plant in shade or part shade location such as dappled woods, forest edge, or a shady area with a high canopy. Do not plant in deep shade under conifers or maples. Prepare the area by removing weeds and loosen soil surface with a rake. In order to evenly broadcast the seeds, mix them with sand, peat moss, or winter rye seeds. Then divide them into 4 containers. Divide the planting area up in our mind into 4 equal size quarters then sow each area separately trying to sow the seeds evenly. This is so that you don't use up all of the seed to fast! Water seeds with a light sprinkle after sowing. From seed, these plants can take 1-3 years to become established and large enough to flower. We also recommend sowing annual plant seeds to fill in the area until the native plants get established. Seed packet covers 25 sq ft.
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Hand harvest seeds after plants have flowered and seeds begin to mature but before the seeds fall off of the plant. Or, cover immature seed heads with a paper bag and securely wrap the paper around the plant stem with string. When seeds are mature, cut stem, invert paper bag, and shake to dislodge seeds from plants.
