This is a two-part course that will introduce you to the wonders of growing all kinds of different plants from seed and will draw on Robert Pavlis’ experience growing over 2,000 species of plants from seed.

Part 1: Fundamentals of Seed Germination

This first part will look at the basics of seed biology to really understand the development of a plant from seed. This knowledge will then be expanded to discuss important topics such as collecting your own seed and storing seed for future growth. We’ll have an in-depth look at seed dormancy and different ways of overcoming it.

We’ll then look at some specific examples like germinating petunias, peonies, jack-in-the-pulpits, and maple trees. These will provide insight into different types of seed germination processes.

Part 2: Practical Aspects of Seed Germination

Description: Now that you understand the fundamental basics it is time to look at the practical aspects of growing from seed. We’ll look at different techniques such as growing in pots, the baggy method and winter sowing. We’ll examine ways of dealing with very small and very large seed, and I’ll show you techniques for scarification and stratification, as well as some tricks for overcoming seed dormancy.

We’ll also look at essentials such as lighting, temperature, watering and hardening off seedlings.

At the end of this two-part course you will be able to germinate thousands of different seeds including both outdoor and indoor plants.

Fee: $20 (plus HST) per person.