Hi I am Teresa I interested in starting house plants from seeds I am espeicalluy intrested in growing abrabica, moses in a cradle, schefflera and others that I can not think of at this time. Please send me detailed instuctions on how to germinate and starts the seeds.. Also if any body can tell how and what daves garden I how I can go about puchasing from. I am new daves garden and I have learn all the ins and outs of the garden. Thanks Tersa
tropical plants from seed
Hi Teresa,
Most plants can be started from seed - tropical included, but may require some special treatment.
Usually soaking larger seed overnight in warm water will help to get a seed started.
I would also recommend that you get a heating mat or warming wires for germinating seeds from the tropics. Often, the seeds must be placed in soil that will be consistently warm, and these wires / mats stay at a constant 70-75 degrees. When using them, make sure you keep the soil moist, but not wet, as the extra heat tends to dry out the seed starting mix quickly. From what I understand, most tropical plants require that you be patient for any sign of germination. Some take up to a month - especially palms.
If you click on the "Products and Sources" tab at the top of the page, you will find many vendors on DG. I have had consistently good results ordering plants and seeds from here. You can also buy seeds listed on Ebay - at your own risk, of course.
Anything more detailed will need to be on a plant by plant basis, I'm afraid. You will often find tips on germination under the listing for each individual plant in the Plant FIles (under the "Guides and Information" tab at the top of the page - and if not, you can always contact people by clicking on their Nick, then D-Mailing them for help.
Best of luck, and welcome to DG!
Jeff