Tri-County Master Gardeners conducted a native plant propagation workshop at the Stratford Horticulture Society meeting on January 12 2026. Master Gardener Carolyn Schmidt presented on direct sowing in the garden and winter sowing of seeds in containers, while Nancy Burnett spoke about cold-moist stratification of seeds in the refrigerator. Master Gardener Don Farwell wrapped up the talk by demonstrating propagation of trees and shrubs from cuttings.
The Master Gardeners packaged up native seeds and the giveaway was very popular. Master Gardeners are always delighted to be able to share inexpensive techniques for propagating native plants. It is a great cost-saving way to expand your native plant garden, especially since native plants are often not available at local nurseries. Below is a summary and resource list prepared by the presenters:
Propagating Native Plants from Seed
Native plants are critical for supporting a healthy garden eco-system but are not always easy to find at local nurseries. Growing from seed enablesyou to grow the species you want, save money, and enjoy the reward of starting a seed and watching it grow into a healthy plant that supportsbiodiversity.
As a living organism, each seed has its own particular traits to consider for breaking dormancy. In order to survive, seeds stay dormant until they receive the correct signals from nature. Methods for growing native plants mimic nature:
1) Direct sow
Seedsare sown in the garden where they directly experience the freeze-thaw cycles of nature. This method is easy and saves time and materials. There is no need to harden off plants and growing outdoors creates small sturdy plants. Most native plants should be sown in fall after first frost and most can be sown on the surface of the soil but check the germination requirements before you sow.
2) Growing Outdoors in Containers
This method provides some protection from foraging animals yet, seeds experience the same freeze thaw cycles of nature. Pots are protected by chicken wire, hardware cloth or grown in milk jugs or plastic containers. Add drainage holes to containers and if using a jug remove the cap. Cut a flap below the handle of the jug. Use potting soil and ensure it is wet. Sow the seeds then seal the jugs or containers with duct tape or twine. Place containers in the shade until spring when they can be moved to receive the morning sun. As the weather warms, remove the lid, and check regularly to see if seedlings require water.
3) Indoor Fridge Method
This method requires space in the fridge and good indoor lighting for seedlings. It works well for small quantities of seed. Place seeds on a damp paper towel then put the towel into a small plastic bag. Alternatively add seeds to a small amount of sterile growing medium such as vermiculite, sand, or seed mix in a baggie or small container. Put them in the fridge for 30 or 60 days according to the germination requirements for the specific seeds. After this period, plant the seeds in pots and place them under grow lights. Be sure to watch for damping off. Seedlings will need to be hardened off in the spring.
Propagating Native Shrubs and Trees
Native shrubs and trees are important for our environment as they are adapted to our climate and soils. They host hundreds of different insect pollinators. Most native trees can be grown from seed. Examples are oak, maple, and hickory. Simply plant outdoors and protect from mice and squirrels. Alternatively, they can be planted in a pot and transplanted later. Many native shrubs easily grow from seeds. Examples are serviceberry, elderberry, and viburnum.
Dogwoods, willows and viburnum are easy to grow from cuttings. Simply take a healthy branch at least the size of a pencil, cut into sections, and stick into moist potting soil. The bottom cut should be just below a node and it may help to dip into growth hormone. Don’t let them dry out. Within a number of weeks, you should have rooted plants easy enough to plant with a drill bit.
If you would like to plant a wind break, protect a stream or ditch, or just naturalize an area of your yard or farm, growing your own plants is ideal and inexpensive, plus it’s great for the environment and supporting biodiversity.
Resources
Foster, J. (n.d.) Grow it Build it Illustrated Guide to Winter Sowing with information about specific native perennials. https://growitbuildit.com/illustrated-guide-to-winter-sowing-with-pictures/
Myers-Chamberlin, L. (Nov. 2025). Winter Sowing: A Budget-Friendly Way to Start Your Native Garden https://homegrownnationalpark.org/winter-sowing-budget-friendly-way-to-start-your-native-garden
Prairie Moon Nursery. How to Germinate Native Seeds https://www.prairiemoon.com/how-to-germinate-native-seeds.html
Wild Seed Project (n.d.) https://wildseedproject.net/blog/ideal-time-for-sowing-native-seeds
Wagner, B. (2023). Winter Sowing https://www.rbg.ca/winter-sowing
Native Seed Germination/Stratification Guidelines
cutting propagation
Master Gardeners are always available to present to local horticulture societies in Perth, Oxford and Huron counties. Master Gardeners can speak on a wide variety of gardening topics. Send us a message via our contact page to book a speaker.
