Propagating Ginkgo biloba from Seeds: Patience is Key!

Ginkgo biloba seeds can be germinated at home, but it's a slow process requiring patience and specific conditions. Here's a step-by-step guide:

What you'll need:

• Fresh Ginkgo biloba seeds (ideally collected in fall and stored properly over winter)
• Stratification medium (moist sand or a mixture of sand and peat moss)
• Potting mix suitable for seedlings (well-draining with good aeration)
• Pots with drainage holes
• Plastic bag

Instructions:

1. Stratification (Winter Simulation): This step mimics the cold winter period seeds experience naturally and is crucial for breaking seed dormancy.

   • Mix your Ginkgo seeds with the stratification medium in a container.
   • Moisten the mixture thoroughly but not soggy.
   • Place the container in a refrigerator (between 35-40°F / 1.5-4°C) for 3-4 months. Check and mist occasionally to maintain moisture.

2. Planting:

   • After stratification, prepare your pots with well-draining seedling mix.
   • Plant each seed about 1-2 inches deep in individual pots.
   • Water gently to moisten the soil.

3. Germination and Care:

   • Place the pots in a warm location with indirect sunlight (around 70-80°F / 21-27°C).
   • Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering. A spray bottle can be helpful for maintaining moisture.
   • Germination can be very slow, taking anywhere from several weeks to several months. Be patient!
   • Once seedlings emerge, gradually introduce them to more sunlight.

4. Transplanting:

   • When seedlings reach a few inches tall with several sets of leaves, they can be transplanted into larger pots with fresh potting mix.

Tips:

• Wear gloves when handling Ginkgo biloba seeds, as the fleshy outer layer can irritate skin.
• Soaking the seeds in warm water for 24 hours before stratification may improve germination success.
• Ginkgo biloba seedlings are sensitive to frost. Protect them from cold temperatures.

Remember: Germinating Ginkgo biloba from seed can be a long and challenging process, but with proper care and patience, you can successfully cultivate your own living fossil!