Germination advice, please, for Viola volcanica

[Maggi Young]

Friends, we have received this query from a grower in the Netherlands who writes:
 "Dear sir/madam,

I wonder if someone at the the Scottish Rock Garden Club has any experience with germinating Viola volcanica from Chile? I have some seeds here but I heard problematic stories from a friend of mine who was unsuccesfull with them.

It would be great if you could help me with this question or perhaps you know people who have grown this very interesting species from seeds. I wonder if GA3 would be helpfull with this species or a very fluctuating stratification?

Best regards and thank you in advance for your help!"


 I have given the gentleman this link to Jim Almond's seed advice : http://freespace.virgin.net/almond.jim/alpseed.htm

[Gerdk]

GA 3 treatment and temperatures around 5 ° C (=fridge) is recommended for the Andean rosulate violets.
I achieved a single Viola volcanica without extra treatment but the result is unsatisfying because the plant elongates awfully - maybe caused by lack of light and ventilation.

Gerd

[Michael J Campbell]

I agree,GA 3 and the fridge, and when they start to germinate put them outside covered with a sheet of clean glass and open all sides for ventilation. They do not like Greenhouses and will get elongated if you put them inside. they must be grown cool with full light.