Hi All,
I started my seeds (Celosia) in wet paper, then in a bag and checked them untill they had tails.
I then gently put them into this plastic box, thinking the humidity and controling the wind etc would be good.
But none have come through as yet, am I exspecting them too soon? They have been in this for about a week now.
Or should I try to propagate some more in the paper thingy?
Debi
I have only started celosia in soil and shallow but moist. It took a week to ten days to sprout. Which celosia are you growing?
Hi Pod,
It is the red one.
So you have never started from the paper?
Can you explain to me your way of how you do it, please.
I bought some seed raising mix, would that be ok for "any" seeds?
Thks Heaps,
Debi
I've only started a couple types of Celosia... the wheatstraw spicata. But I thought what are you doing starting it at this time of year ~ then I saw your locale and said Duh! Tis your growing season. 8 )
I had used regular potting soil but the seed raising mix should do o.k. The critical thing will be moisture. Not soggy but evenly moist. I think a warmer temp is also important for sprouting. Some I put in small cell packs but they require to much attention for moisture. I started others in large pots and the plants are easy to pick out and transplant if you want them in ground. Also, if you need protection from wind and aren't able to shelter the pot near a building, you may leave more space at the top of a bigger pot. That way, the rim of the pot should shelter the delicate seedlings. If I am not mistaken, most Celosia grow quite tall.
Best wishes! pod
Hi Again, Mate,
I was wondering wether it is a good time to start my cacti seeds.
1/ Astrophytum Capricorne Seeds
2/ Matucana Paucicostata Cactus Seeds
3/ Ferocactus Peninsulae Seeds
Would my Seed Raising Mix also be suitable for them?
Thanks for your help,
Debi
You know, I have never started cacti from seed. I will try to read up on it and perhaps assist. Will let you know.
What is your temp right now? I suffer "warm" envy ~ 8 )
All right, I am going to take a shot at this... I have a few different books and they all concur.
The best time to start these seed will be spring or early summer.
Recommended bottom heat of 70F or more for optimum germination, especially at night.
In the clay pot, the seed should be covered no deeper than its' thickness, sifting a fine, clean sand over it evenly. Then, set the pot in a pan of warm water to saturate the pot. Let it drip before putting it on the bottom heat. Cover the pot with a piece of clear glass. This will prevent evaporation. Do not place in direct sun ~ bright shade only.
Germination times vary from 1 day to 1 year. Most germinate in 2-3 weeks. When all have germinated, give a small amount of ventilation for a few hours daily. Once developed, they can be hardened off by exposing to more air and light.
Best wishes, keep us posted. pod
