19-03-2004, 10:33 AM
Quote:Originally posted by PomBok
More R
I am having the same problem with my hostas. A month gone by and nothing, not even a peak at the outside world from one of them and I planted 50+ seeds. In fairness, Thompson and Morgan's cultural advice did say they were difficult to germinate, so maybe I have messed up.
I have also just sown some New Zealand Flax (Phormium), the packet says they take between one and six months to germinate. This may stretch my enjoyment of the waiting just a bit too far!
Pombok, there are sometimes ways to speed up germination - smoke treatment of seeds can help, as can putting some varieties in the freezer or fridge for a week or two. It is worth checking where these species occur naturally and see if the hot or cold option would be better.
Lisa from Amishland Seeds suggested (after I had sown them) that I pre sprout all my seeds. It does make very good sense to do so. She said to soak the seed (any type) for an hour, then place in damp tissue paper in a plastic bag in a warm place until they sprout, then plant immediately. At least you have some guarantee of how many plants you will get and I will definitely be doing this with the remainder of my tomato and chilli seeds, and will try the okra the same way.