Freezing Seeds – Not Helpful

Q: I have heard that freezing seeds for up to one week prior to planting seeds up the germination. Is this true?

A: I don’t think it helps germination. It’s true that some seeds require “stratification”, which is storage in a moist, 40 degree spot for eight weeks before planting. Soaking seeds in lukewarm water for 24 hours before planting will certainly help those with hard seed coats, like okra, beets and sweet pea.