Crataegus mexicana, commonly called tejocote or Mexican hawthorn, is a thorny deciduous tree native to the mountains of Mexico and Guatemala. Seeds exhibit strong embryo dormancy requiring a two-stage warm-then-cold stratification regimen to break dormancy and achieve satisfactory germination. Proper stratification timing and temperature control are critical for success.
Before sowing
Two-stage stratification required: Stage 1 - Warm stratification at 15-20°C for 3 months in humid substrate. Stage 2 - Cold stratification at 4-5°C for 3 months in humid environment. Seeds can be mixed in peat or vermiculite and placed in sealed plastic bags or zip-lock containers.
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Keep substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged during stratification - squeeze test method: if water drips when squeezed, substrate is too wet. Do not expose newly sown seeds to temperatures exceeding 24°C as this induces secondary dormancy. Germination is slow and erratic; seeds may germinate during cold stratification stage (radicles may appear after 2-3 months cold treatment). Ungerminated seeds can undergo the entire warm-cold cycle again up to 5 years after initial sowing. Ensure good air circulation to prevent mold growth. Seedlings grow slowly in early stages - do not rush transplanting.
Sources: Temperate Ferns Database, Blockhill Seeds, USDA Forest Service, Plants For A Future Database
