Ginkgo

Yesterday, I planted three (3) ginkgo seeds (indoors).

Ginkgo biloba is one of the oldest deciduous tree species on earth. It has distinctive bi-lobed and fanlike leaves, which turn a beautiful golden yellow in the fall. It is hardy zones 3-9. It can be planted in almost any kind of soil. In 10-12 years, it will stand 20 feet tall. In 100 years, it should stand 100 feet tall. The Ginkgo has a long life span, typically 1000-1500 years.

Instructions:

If you are going to start your seeds indoors, it is important to first expose seeds to warm temperatures followed by cold temperatures to improve their germination rate. This is known as stratification.

Mix and knead the germination medium with water until you can form it into a ball. Squeeze out all excess water.

Place the seeds into the germination bag with the moistened germination medium. Zip up the bag, write the contents and date on the outside of the bag, and store it at room temperature (68-86 degrees F) for one month. Do not place the bag in direct sunlight.

Inspect the seeds every week to make sure the germination medium is moist and the seeds are not dark and soft. Add water to moisten the medium if necessary. Throw away any dark and softened seeds.

After the month, remoisten the medium (if required), then put the germination bag in the bottom vegetable crisper compartment of your refrigerator for 60-90 days.

Inspect seeds every week as before.

Return the seeds in their germination bag back to room temperature, keeping them out of direct sunlight.

The seeds may start to sprout at some point during refrigeration or they may sprout when stored at room temperature. It may take up to 3 months at room temperature before sprouting begins. Pot the seedlings using growing medium.

Water and mist your ginkgo frequently at first.

Make sure it has plenty of light (a sunny window will work) and air circulation.

After a few months in the pot, it may be planted outside in light shade, preferably in a greenhouse for the first year.

Plant in permanent location the following spring.