Juglans regia, commonly called English or Persian walnut, is a large deciduous tree native to Eurasia, valued for its edible nuts and fine-grained timber. Seeds possess deep dormancy that requires cold stratification for 90-120 days to break dormancy and achieve successful germination, making this species moderately challenging to propagate from seed.
Before sowing
Removal of outer green husk is essential as it contains germination-inhibiting compounds. Seeds can be floated in water to identify viable ones; viable seeds sink.
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Always remove the outer green husk completely as it contains germination-inhibiting compounds. Use cold stratification at 35-40°F for 90-120 days in moist peat moss or sand mix. After stratification, germinate at warm temperatures (70-90°F). Plant seeds 1-2 inches deep in deep containers due to taproot development. Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging. Provide full sunlight after germination. Mulch seed beds and use screen protection against rodents. Monitor stratifying seeds weekly to ensure medium remains moist but not waterlogged. Avoid over-scarification as seed coat is already protective.
Sources: Forest Research UK, Iowa State University Extension, MasterClass, USDA guidelines, Agri Farming research, University of Florida Landscape Plant Propagation Database
