Propagation: Looking for Germination Methods for Hibiscus, 1 by MollyMc

MollyMc wrote:
Karrie,

I know your zone is far different than mine and the way you keep them warm and lighted will be somewhat different, but this is what I did.

On March 25th, in 4 - 2 inch pots, I put Scotts potting soil, for seed starting. I just placed the seeds a bit below the soil line and sprinkled a little more over the top of them. Gave them some water and just set them down on the floor of my patio on this low clay container. (there just happens to be dirt in the container) In 3 days 4 had germinated. I watered them every couple days. Now, less than a month later, there are 21 seedlings. 2 or 3 are starting their second set of leaves right now.

Our temps here since March have been no lower than 58 at night and no more than 85 during the day. The patio is screened in facing the east so they have high light in the morning and medium light for the rest of the day.

Without looking at the ingredients list on the bag, this Scott's soil seems to be potting soil mixed with spaghnum moss to make it a bit more light weight.

I posted these over in the Hibiscus forum. I was waiting over there for an answer on "What do I do next". Maybe if you don't mind, I can wait over here with you for a response?

Donna are you watching too? and how are yours doing?

Karrie, also a few days ago I took a seedling flat using the same soil mix, put in Gaillardia, Yellow Bauhinia, Bronze Fennell, Trailing Lantana, Ice Plant and Columbine seeds. The first 3 have germinated and the last 3 have not yet. I had cling wrap over the top of the flat until I saw germination, then I took it off. They also are out on my patio.

Is it okay if I wait with you?

Molly