A seed germination protocol for Miscanthus sinensis (Andersson) is not available. Our objectives were to evaluate requirements for germination. Eight seed lots (four varieties and two production years) were germinated at four alternating temperatures: 15-25, 15-30, 20-30, and 16-22°C for 16-8 h, respectively; with or without light; and GA3, KNO3, prechill, or water (control) (32 treatment combinations). Fresh seeds (2011) germinated best at 20-30°C, whereas seeds from 2010 were not affected by temperature. This difference may suggest the presence of dormancy, as seed germination was enhanced by prechill and GA3. Light was not a significant factor. These results provide a basis for developing a standard germination protocol.