Growing staghorn sumac (Rhus typhina) from seeds can be a rewarding experience. Here’s how you can do it:
Gather Ripe Seeds: Collect seeds from ripe staghorn sumac fruits. Wait until the sumacs naturally release their seeds, indicating full maturity. The seeds are covered in bright red “hairs” that aren’t actually hairs but tiny fibers coated in a sticky resin-like substance.
Sealed zip-locked bag in bubble mailer.
Store the dried sumac berries in an airtight container, such as a glass jar or a resealable plastic bag. Label the container with the date and contents. Keep it in a cool, dark, and dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Scarification: Sumac seeds need scarification before germination. You can achieve this by: Soaking them in acid or hot water. Placing them in a warm room away from direct sunlight. Scarification breaks dormancy and prepares the seeds for sprouting. Planting: Plant scarified seeds 1/3 to 3/4 inch deep in well-draining soil. Choose a sunny spot for planting, and ensure good drainage. Mist the soil regularly to keep it moist during germination. General Care: After germination, remove any plastic wrap and position the pot in a sunny window. Staghorn sumac grows fast, so give it enough space to spread out. Water regularly during establishment (about 1 inch per week). Sumac can handle poor soil and doesn’t require much fertilizer.
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