Seeds that exhibit internal dormancy are usually dispersed in the autumn and they lie on the ground with the litter over winter. Stratification mimics the natural dispersal process which allows seed to undergo biochemical and afterripening changes necessary before germination is possible. Sowing Many nurseries have sown untreated dormant seeds of some species in the fall. In that way, seeds receive what amounts to a warm, then cold afterripening. Not only does this practice lower production costs by eliminating or lessening presowing treatments, but it can usually be done in the fall after seed collection and processing but before winter freeze up.
Labor demands are lower then, and in New Hampshire, soil conditions are more favorable for planting.
Certain conditions must be met before fall sowing is successful. First, the seeds must be of high quality. Weak or damaged seeds will rarely survive over winter. Even good seeds need protective mulching in cold regions, i.e. New Hampshire. Time of sowing is also very important.