Abstract
Propagating Rocky Mountain juniper (Juniperus scopulorum Sarg. [Cupressaceae]) from seeds is difficult, but proper collection, cleaning, storage, and dormancy treatment can improve success. Our best results are achieved by: 1) avoiding collection of immature and insect damaged cones; 2) minimizing cone storage or storing surface-dried cones under well-ventilated conditions at 1 to 3 °C (34 to 37 °F) and 80% to 90% humidity; 3) macerating cones in hand-cleaner-amended water; 4) separating light or unfilled seeds from viable seeds with flotation; and 5) treating seeds with a 120-d warm moist stratification in peat moss mix followed by a 150-d cold moist chilling. Establishment and management of cultivated orchards improves seed yield and quality.