What are conditions for cattail germination?

Question

In bio class we have to grow cattails and i would like my experement to be successful.

Answer 1

Kinda feels like cheating to *give* you the answer, but ask and ye shall receive, right?
" * Germination: Seeds capable of germination immediately upon shedding under favorable conditions, but require moist or wet substrates, warm temperatures, low oxygen concentrations, and long day/short night exposures for germination to occur. Highest germination rates (86-89%) at temperatures of 77°-86°F. Because of the relatively high temperature required for germination, seeds overwinter in northern latitudes, but not necessarily in southern latitudes. Light, temperature, and oxygen requirements for germination are best met in shallow water or on moist mudflats in vegetation-free areas. Within established stands, seedlings are practically nonexistent because existing vegetative cover greatly reduces light and temperature for germination. Leaves and stems may also produce allelopathic inhibitors.
* Once established, a single seedling spreads rapidly by rhizomes.
* By seed
o surface sow in a pot and stand it in 1" of water.
o pot up young seedlings as soon as possible, increasing water depth as the plants develop
o plant out in summer
* Division in spring most successful method
o divide young shoots when about 14"-12" tall, making sure there is at least some root attached
o plant out in permanent locations
Happy Germinating!

Answer 2

I'm surprised your teacher would pick such a difficult "little" seed to examine. Not knowing the ideal conditions, I would have to experiment myself, as I have done many times to introduce wild or unknown seeds to my many gardens. First do your research, "this" is a good start, but read and talk to as many sources as possible. Next, start thinking like a cattail! Where do I grow, when do my seeds disperse on the wind and where do they fall. Some seeds need to "stratify" to germinate, this means they must be exposed to winter conditions before they will sprout. My refrigerator is used to trick some of my more stubborn seeds. I often plant unknown seeds in all the various "micro-climates" in my gardens to see what happens. If your cattail seeds were to sprout and flourish in the mud on the sunny side of my fish pond and not in the shade of my rock garden what would you have learned? Try to create your own "micro-climates" using quart jars or plastic containers. Fill them half full of various growing media, at least 3 or 4 of each. Try potting soil, pond mud,sand and paper towels using various amounts of water to make your own "mini" micro-climates. Then make things even more fun by putting some in the dark,in the sun, in the refrigerator, in the house or my favorite, outside next to some cattails. RScott