NOTES ON HYBRIDIZING

 First germinations are here. Germinated in the fridge. The germinants will spend some time in the embryonarium while growing in jars under plant lights. Once they are opened a bit more, showing the true leaves and a good root, they will be transfered to individual pots with soil. Many germinations originated from the cross Arethusa x R. helenae. It is getting interesting…

 Yes, it is cold, much colder than I expected, but it doesn‘t mean I am doing nothing. I made some statistics for my hems: I counted 370 seedlings planted in my test field in 2025 (hybridized in 2024). And I still have more: 65 seedlings are out there too, all from 2024, to be evaluated later this year. And additionally, in my fridge I have 1160 seeds originating from my most recent crosses; they are to be planted in spring 2026 (and to be evaluated in 2027/28). Beds must be prepared very soon!  Also, I am currently designing new beds for new conifers to come in order to build a wind–screening hedge. Not some random conifers, of course, I want to have a small collection of rare plants.  I am also trying to bring some spring vibes indoors, at the same time snow and stormy wind are conquering our land, and we do not know for how long they will be testing our patience…