How to Germinate Hypericum

Choose a germinating container for the hypericum seed. If you are germinating lots of seeds, use a nursery flat or large nursery pot. For just a few seeds, use small nursery pots or any container with holes in the bottom for drainage.

Create a porous germinating mix by combining equal parts of potting soil and sphagnum moss in a bucket or other container. Pour water over the ingredients while stirring to make it evenly wet. Pour the mixture into the germinating container and set it aside for an hour to drain.

Place the hypericum seeds in a fine-mesh strainer or sieve, and run water over them, rubbing them gently with your fingers.

Scatter the hypericum seeds on top of the mix and cover with 1/8-inch layer of potting soil. You will thin the seedlings later in the process, so planting distance isn't important at this point. Spray the surface of the mix with water to moisten the top layer, and spray as needed during germination to keep the seeds moist.

Set the container in a spot that receives indirect sunshine and remains at a constant 59 degrees Fahrenheit. The correct temperature is one of the most important aspects when germinating hypericum seed. It is especially important when germinating Hypericum perforatum, or St. John's wort. Seeds germinate within 14 to 20 days.

Thin the hypericum seedlings two weeks after they sprout. Remove the smallest, weakest seedlings, pulling them carefully from the soil so that you don't disturb those that remain.