Method for Scarifying the Seed Coat of Yew Seeds for Propagation

For propagating yew from seed, the method for scarifying the seed coat is as follows: the seeds have a long after-ripening period and exhibit dormancy; under natural conditions they require two winters and one summer before they can germinate, that is, they are placed outdoors in winter to freeze, then exposed to high temperatures and rain in summer, and sown in autumn of the following year. If sowing in spring, the seeds can remain outdoors in the soil to freeze after winter sets in, then be moved into a warm house in late March to early April for sprouting and sowing; seedlings can emerge about 20 days after sowing. If the seeds can be rubbed repeatedly with coarse sand using the sole of a shoe on rough concrete ground, wearing through the inconspicuous tough seed coat and thinning the hard seed shell (but not crushing the kernel), the seeds will readily absorb water and air, and germinate faster after sowing.