Genista tinctoria

Germination

Sow indoors at any time. Sow into a cold frame in autumn. Prior to sowing soak seeds in warm water until the seed swells. If this is more than 24 hours change the water daily. Sow seeds as soon as they swell. Any seeds that do not swell can be scarified. Sow 1mm deep into moist, well-drained seed compost. Ideal temp 15°C for 2-4 weeks then cold stratify. Move to -4-+4°C for 4-6 weeks then return to warmth 5-12°C for germination. Seed placed in a cold frame will enjoy natural winter cold which should offer ideal conditions for germination to occur in spring as the weather warms. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Acclimatise and plant out when well grown and after danger of frost has passed.

Growing

Prefers any poor, well-drained soil in full sun.

Cultivation

Pruning group 1. No routine pruning required. Remove diseased, damaged or congested crossing shoots. Will not tolerate hard pruning. New growth will not grow from old wood. After pruning mulch and feed.