I am a seed, a tiny, dark vessel of life, but I am dormant. My hard outer coat is a protective shell, designed by my parent plant to withstand the elements and ensure I do not germinate at an inopportune time, like on the cusp of winter. To break this deep sleep, I require a process called cold stratification. You must mimic the natural winter conditions I would experience if I fell to the ground in the autumn. Place me in a moist medium, like damp sand, vermiculite, or a paper towel, seal me in a plastic bag, and refrigerate me for approximately 4-6 weeks. This prolonged chill signals to my embryo that winter has passed, and it is safe to begin growing.
Once my cold period is complete, I am ready for a nurturing environment to sprout. I require a well-draining, sterile seed-starting mix. Gently press me into the surface of the moist soil, but do not bury me deeply; I need some light to help trigger germination. Maintain a consistently moist (but not waterlogged) environment, as I am vulnerable to drying out at this tender stage. A clear plastic dome or cover over my container will help retain humidity, creating a miniature greenhouse. Place me in a warm location with indirect, bright light. With the right balance of warmth and moisture, my radicle (the first root) will emerge and begin to anchor me into the soil.
As I break through the soil as a seedling, my first set of leaves, called cotyledons, will appear. These are not my true leaves but provide the initial energy for my growth. Soon after, my delicate, true leaves will unfurl, resembling miniature versions of my parent's lacy foliage. At this stage, I am still very fragile. Continue to keep my soil moist and provide bright, indirect light. If I am growing in a communal tray with other seedlings, I will eventually need more space for my roots to expand and avoid becoming tangled and stunted.
Once I have developed several sets of true leaves and the danger of frost has passed, I am ready to be hardened off and transplanted to my permanent home. You must acclimate me gradually to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days by placing me outside for a few hours each day in a sheltered location, increasing the time and sun exposure slowly. I thrive in a spot with dappled shade or morning sun and afternoon shade, much like the forest floor from which my species originates. The soil should be rich, humusy, and well-draining. Plant me at the same depth I was growing in my pot, water me in thoroughly, and apply a light mulch to help retain soil moisture and keep my roots cool.
My first year of life is dedicated to establishing a strong root system and foliage. I will focus my energy on building a robust tuberous root structure that will store nutrients and allow me to survive the winter. Do not be disappointed if I do not flower in my first season; this is a natural and wise allocation of my resources. With consistent moisture and cool shade, I will grow larger each year. In my second spring, and for many thereafter, I will reward your patience by sending up arching stems adorned with rows of my characteristic, heart-shaped pink and white flowers.
