Best perennial shrubs and trees which can be started from seed

I am looking for suggestions for perennial shrubs and trees which can be easily raised from seed (not cuttings, etc.). Also, I would like suggestions for seed sources for them. Thanks!

It is hard to say, since you didn't specify what you want them for.

A good multi-function permaculture tree/shrub is Caragana arborescens (Siberian Pea Tree/Shrub). It is useful as a windbreak, erosion control, wildlife forage, fuel wood, poultry feed, and, being a legume, it is also a nitrogen fixer.

It is hardy to zone 2, and can stand drought, and grows to about 20 feet tall. It is deciduous, which would be a nice change for WA.

A good source for seeds is http://jlhudsonseeds.net/

Generally if you want it to come true from seed, nuts are a good bet, however some need pollinators so watch for that. I have grown oaks and apples and other trees from seeds and have had very good success, don't be afraid to do oaks cause they are known to be slow, I love my home grown oak, and am very proud to say I planted it from an acorn. I like gathering seeds of any shrubs, trees and even flowers that I find around and planting them here and there, we have about 16 acres to fool with and about 10 fairly wildish oldfield we are reverting back to woods, now it is very happily covering itself with alders, aspen and lots of evergreens ..most of the evergreens are from blown in seeds too. Never hurts to try...if it flubs, you have firewood

Pea shrub (caragana) can be invasive.

Seed source: Try lawyer's nursery. Note that a quarter pound is the smallest amount they sell.

You also should check out styroblocks (beaver plastics) The 250 ml cell size is a nice size for starting trees and shrubs.

Many trees and shrubs are a LOT easier to start from cuttings than from seed. Most of the willows, most of the poplars (not the group that include aspen) do really well from cuttings.

Some things have a narrow window for taking cuttings. Some require mist.