TIPS FOR SOWING & STORING TROPICAL SEEDS

SOWING TROPICAL & EXOTIC SEEDS:

These simple seed sowing tips will help you get good results when growing your own plants at home.

• The majority of seeds will greatly benefit from being sown in to specific ‘Seed Sowing’ compost. It is specially formulated to provide seeds with the right environment for germination and early growth.
• Small seeds (up to 2-3mm across) can generally be sown on the surface of the seed compost and will not need covering.
• Medium and large seeds can generally be sowed to a depth about twice the depth of the seed itself.
• Hard shelled seeds such as Musa, Ensete and Canna will benefit from being soaked for up to 48 hours in warm water prior to sowing. This treatment is likely to speed up germination considerably.
• Hard shelled seeds may also benefit from scarification. This is the process of gently rubbing away the hard outer layer to allow water to enter the seed. Scarification of seeds is often done using fine sandpaper.
• Bright light is essential for the majority of seedlings. Good light will ensure the young plants do not grow leggy and weak.
• Temperatures for seed sowing are generally ideal between 20 – 24 degrees Celsius. Some plants such as Musa will require warm and cold day/night cycles for the best germination rates.
• Heated propagators will help you grow from seed for more months of the year. However, sowing seeds in spring on a sunny windowsill is often a very effective low-cost method.

For detailed seed sowing guidance and support please consider joining the Grow Paradise Seed Club, our very popular monthly seed subscription box.