GERMINATION **Germination Instructions for Eastern Red Columbine Seeds:** Eastern red columbines (Aquilegia canadensis) are beautiful, perennial wildflowers with distinctive red and yellow blossoms. To successfully germinate their seeds, follow these steps: **1. Stratification:** Eastern red columbine seeds require a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. Mix the seeds with moist sand or vermiculite in a sealed plastic bag and refrigerate for 4-6 weeks. During this time, the seeds will experience temperatures that mimic winter conditions, which is necessary for their germination. **2. Sowing:** After stratification, remove the seeds from the refrigerator and sow them in well-drained soil that is amended with organic matter. The seeds can be sown directly in the garden in early spring or started indoors in late winter. If sowing indoors, use a seed-starting mix and keep the seeds covered with a thin layer of soil or vermiculite. **3. Temperature and Light:** Eastern red columbine seeds require temperatures between 55-70F (13-21C) for optimal germination. Place the seeds in a warm, sunny location indoors or outdoors. **4. Moisture:** Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as this can inhibit germination. **5. Emergence:** Germination usually occurs within 14-21 days. Once the seedlings emerge, provide them with bright, indirect light. **6. Transplanting:** When the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or into the garden. Harden off the seedlings gradually by exposing them to outdoor conditions for increasing periods of time before transplanting.