Germination of
Liquidamber styraciflua
Sweet Gum Bonsai Tree: Liquidambar, American Sweet Gum, Red Gum, Star-Leaved Gum
The seeds of Liquidamber styraciflua require stratification to break dormancy and encourage germination. Stratification is a process of exposing the seeds to a period of cold and damp conditions, simulating winter. To stratify the seeds, place them in a plastic bag with a mixture of moist sand and peat moss, and store in the refrigerator for 60-90 days. After stratification, sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mixture and cover with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil evenly moist and maintain a temperature of 20-25�C. Germination can occur within 3-4 weeks.
Some of plants may have very have specific germination requirements that may not be covered in these general instructions.
Many seeds require pre-treatment before sowing which we try to list here when we can, but this information may not be present here. Germination times and germination temperatures are to be a guide only. Many factors can DRASTICALLY affect this.
It's always a good idea to research the specific germination requirements from multiple sources for each plant before attempting to grow them from seed.