A field maple hedge for free is within reach if you dedicate yourself to the seeds with horticultural expertise. These instructions will familiarize you with the skillful seed harvest and professional sowing of Acer campestre.

Field maple can be easily propagated from seeds

Harvesting and preparing seeds - This is how it works

In autumn, the fruits ripen with two wings spread out at the sides. When the small propellers turn brown, this is the signal for seed harvest to begin. It does not harm later germination if you only collect the fruits after they have already fallen to the ground. To prepare the seed:

  • Twist the wings off the fruit
  • Fill a thermos with lukewarm water or chamomile tea
  • Soak the seeds in it for 24 hours

When you remove the seeds from the thermos, sowing should already be prepared so that the seeds do not dry again.

Instructions for sowing - Cold stimulus overcomes germination inhibition

Field maple seeds are equipped with a germination inhibition. In this way, Mother Nature protects the seeds from germinating in the middle of winter, which the tiny ones would not survive. A targeted cold stimulus under your gardening care overcomes this inhibition threshold. How to do it right:

  • Fill a small freezer bag with potting soil, sand or vermiculite
  • Slightly moisten the substrate with stagnant water
  • Fill the soaked seeds into the bag, roll up from the bottom and seal tightly
  • Store in the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator for 6 to 8 weeks at 1 to 4 degrees Celsius

Check the seed regularly for the beginning of germination. As soon as the germs sprout, the cold stimulus has done its job. Now plant the seedlings in a multi-pot propagation tray no more than 1 cm deep in a mix of potting soil and sand. At the semi-shady, warm window seat, keep the substrate constantly slightly moist.

Your field maple offspring are pricked out in individual pots when at least 2 further, real pairs of leaves have developed above the two cotyledons.

tips

Sowing field maple seeds is the ideal project for introducing children to the joys of home gardening. Thanks to the rapid growth, the first results can be admired within a short time. In contrast to other maple species, Acer campestre does not contain any toxic ingredients.

Category:

Trees