Crataegus azarolus seeds, Azarolus

Sowing **Crataegus azarolus** (azarole), a hardy fruit tree appreciated for its fruits and its ornamental role, requires special preparation due to the natural dormancy of its seeds. Here is a complete guide to successful sowing:

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### Materials needed:
- Seeds of **Crataegus azarolus**.
- Light, well-drained substrate (mixture of potting soil, sand or perlite).
- Stratification tray or refrigerator.
- Seedling pots or trays.
- Spray bottle or watering can with low flow.

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### Steps for sowing:

#### 1. **Seed harvest and preparation**:
- Harvest ripe fruits (azaroles) in the fall when they are nicely colored.
- Remove the seeds by crushing the fruit and rinsing it thoroughly to remove any pulp.

#### 2. **Cold stratification (essential)**:
- **Crataegus azarolus** seeds have a double dormancy (physiological and mechanical), which requires a period of cold stratification.
- Mix the seeds with a moist substrate (sand or vermiculite) in an airtight plastic bag or closed container.
- Place them in the refrigerator at a temperature of **2 to 5 °C** for **3 to 6 months**.
- Check regularly that the substrate remains slightly damp.

#### 3. **Preparation of the substrate for sowing**:
- Mix seed starting soil with sand or perlite to ensure good drainage.
- Fill your pots or seed trays with this mixture.

#### 4. **Sowing the seeds**:
- After stratification, sow the seeds at a depth of **1 to 2 cm**.
- Cover them lightly with a thin layer of sieved substrate.
- Tamp gently to ensure good contact between the seeds and the substrate.

#### 5. **Watering**:
- Moisten the substrate with a spray bottle or a watering can at low flow.
- Maintain constant humidity without soaking the soil.

#### 6. **Germination conditions**:
- Place the pots in a bright place but away from direct sunlight.
- The ideal temperature for germination is **15 to 20 °C**.
- Be patient, as seeds may germinate irregularly and take up to **6 to 12 months**.

#### 7. **Replanting**:
- When the seedlings reach about **10 cm** in height and develop several true leaves, transplant them into individual pots.
- Use a similar substrate and continue to grow them in a bright place.

#### 8. **Planting in open ground**:
- Transplant the young plants into their final location after their first year of growth, when all risk of frost has passed.
- Space the plants **3 to 5 meters** apart, depending on the desired effect.

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### Additional tips:
- **Exposure**: The azarole prefers sunny locations, but tolerates partial shade.
- **Soil**: It adapts well to various types of soil, provided they are well drained.
- **Hardiness**: Very hardy, it can tolerate low winter temperatures.
- **Watering**: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
- **Maintenance**: Lightly prune young plants to encourage balanced growth.

With a little patience and care, you can successfully grow **Crataegus azarolus**, a tree that is both decorative and useful, and will beautify your garden while producing delicious fruits. 🌳