When it comes to starting seeds, we know that a few variables have to be present for successful germination: viable seed, consistent moisture, and warmth.

Right?

Which is why it seems counterintuitive when you find out many seeds actually need COLD to germinate! That's right—they won't sprout unless they go through a long enough period of chilling to break dormancy.

But it's not just cold that these seeds need. It's a combination of cold and moisture (and time), a process that's also known as cold stratification.

If you've ever had trouble germinating certain seeds, you were probably doing everything right except for this one thing. And there are thousands of seeds that require cold stratification, which means the ideal time to sow them is right now (or a few weeks before your last expected frost date).

Here are 47 common seeds that need a cold treatment before sowing.

(And if you find out in spring that one of your seeds require stratification, don't worry—I also cover how you can mimic the proper winter conditions indoors.)

13 Vegetables For Your Winter Garden That Are More Cold-Hardy Than Kale Read more

Cold-Hardy Herbs You Can Grow Outside In Winter Read more

These Cold-Loving Vegetables Turn Sweeter After Frost Read more

6 Hardy Ground Covers That Stay Green All Winter Read more

16 Winter-Blooming Flowers That Thrive in Cold and Snow Read more

How to Freeze Parsley, Cilantro, Chives and Other Herbs Read more

My new book, The Route 66 Cookbook, is almost here!! If you were thinking of buying a copy for yourself or gifting it to a friend, I hope you'll consider preordering it now to help launch this book into the world.

You can preorder The Route 66 Cookbook online from your local independent bookstore here. (Or do it the old-fashioned way and preorder by phone or in person.)

Here's an early press review from Bless Their Hearts Mom:

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Part love letter to the nostalgia lore of Route 66, part fusion cookbook, part history of traveling across country, this book is perfect for the person who has it all or loves cookbooks that bring a different part of the world to you. The pictures will have you hunkering to get into the kitchen, and most of the reP.cipes are fairly simple, from pantry items, or ones that are now easily accessible. Bless Their Hearts Mom

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P.S. Check this list of 47 common seeds that require cold stratification before you sow them.

P.P.S. Get a sneak peek inside The Route 66 Cookbook at my new book landing page.