Seed Treatment
Cold Stratification: Place seeds on a damp paper towel inside a ziplock bag. Store in the refrigerator at 1–5 °C (34–41 °F) for 4–6 weeks.
If seedlings emerge during this process, carefully remove them and plant immediately.
When to Sow
Indoors: Late winter to early spring after stratification
Outdoors: Late fall to allow natural stratification
Optimum Temperature to Germinate Seeds
18–22 °C (65–72 °F)
Germination Time: up to 12 weeks (84 days) after stratification
Sowing Instructions
- Use a sterile, well-draining, acidic medium (peat moss + perlite or fine sand).
- Surface sow seeds — do not cover — they need light to germinate.
- Mist lightly to moisten.
- Cover with a clear lid or place in a humidity dome to maintain humidity.
- Provide bright indirect light or grow lights (12–16 hours/day).
Post Germination Care
- Keep soil consistently moist, not soggy.
- Remove cover once most seeds have germinated to improve air circulation.
- When seedlings develop true leaves, transplant carefully.
- Be cautious with roots, which are delicate at this stage.
Growing Tips
- Rhododendron minus is an evergreen shrub with soft pink to lavender flowers and attractive foliage — perfect for shaded woodland gardens.
- Prefers partial to full shade and consistently moist, acidic soil.
- Mulch with pine bark or leaf mold to maintain soil acidity and moisture.
- Avoid fertilizing young seedlings heavily; use a diluted fertilizer for acid-loving plants after they are established.