Trilliums – Propagation with Seeds

Q: I have several trilliums in my yard, some with small blossoms on them. Is it possible to propagate them from seed?

A: It’s not easy. Not all trilliums set seed each year. If you see a swollen pod in the center of the three leaves, collect it and squeeze out the seed to plant in a woodland area. It may take four years for the plants to bloom. Trillium expert William Cullina has an excellent guide to seed propagation at http://www.walterreeves.com/uploads/pdf/cullinatrilliumseedpropagation.pdf. If you want trilliums more quickly, attend the wildflower plant sales at Georgia Perimeter College Botanical Gardens. Details at xrl.us/NATIVEPLANT  (BROKEN).

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