(Sorbus aucuparia) Perennial. Zone 3. Native range—Europe. Rosaceae (Rose) Family. Also known as European Mountain Ash, naturalized in parts of Canada. Can grow 20-40 feet tall. High tolerance to wind, great as a windbreak or shelter belt. White Spring blooms form into orange-red berries in late Summer, a rich food source for birds. The berries of Rowan Trees are also edible for humans, but only when cooked, making a nice tart jam. Long historical significance in mythology and folklore. GROWING INSTRUCTIONS** Difficult For best results, sow seeds outdoors in late Summer. Shady spot and mulch beds. If starting indoors... SEED PRETREATMENT: Soak seeds in water for 24 hours. Then, mix seeds with moistened soil 4x seed volume. Place in a plastic bag or container. STRATIFICATION: After soaking seeds, start 60 days warm/moist (20°C), the top of your fridge is a good spot for this, monitor for mold. Next, 120 days cold/moist (5°C), in your fridge is a good spot. Inspect periodically for even moisture. POST-STRATIFICATION: Sow stratified seeds 1/4” deep. Alternating soil temperatures during the day (warmer than 20 °C) and night (cooler than 20°C) can help germination. Water evenly. GERMINATION: When all previously mentioned requirements are fulfilled, germination generally occurs in 30-45 days. Stratifying Seeds Naturally Outdoors in the Fall How to Stratify Tree Seeds Indoors------------------------------Available direct from Incredible Seeds, a Canadian Heirloom and Heritage Seed Company, offering only the best natural, non-GMO, open pollinated and untreated seeds, located in Mi'kma'ki / Nova Scotia.
