Tilia cordata

Germination

Sow indoors. Create a mix of 1:1 seed compost and sharp sand or vermiculite which is moist but not wet. Add seeds to the mix and place in a freezer bag, allow a little air gap or tie loosely. Place somewhere warm for 16-18 weeks, 20°C is ideal, keep moist at all times. Then cold stratify, place in the fridge, 4°C for 16 weeks. If seeds germinate during this time remove and pot up. Otherwise after 16 weeks remove and sow 10mm deep into moist compost. Ideal temp. 15-20°C. Germination should occur but can be erratic. Several cycles of warmth/cold might be needed. Germination can take years. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to individual pots and grow on for 1-2 years before planting in the final position.

Growing

Prefers a moist, alkaline-neutral soil which remains evenly moist but well-drained. Requires little attention. Can be prone to aphids.

Cultivation

Pruning group 1. No routine pruning necessary. Prune if needed in late winter or early spring. After pruning mulch and feed. Propagate by seed.