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Turquoise Puya

 

Deppea splendens

Germinating the seeds

 

Getting started -   These seeds are very small, so work in a well-lit area.

 I recommend starting each seed in individual pots.  You may use small pots (2 inch / 5 cm).  They should have drainage holes.  Fill each container with a mix of 50-60% potting soil and 40-50% perlite.  Don't compress the soil - just water it so that it's uniformly moist (use bottled water if your tap water is bad).  Place a seed on top, and sprinkle a very thin (1/8 inch / 3 mm) layer of vermiculite (or soil) on top.  Carefully moisten this top layer. 

 Until the seeds sprout, ensure that the top layer always stays moist (but not soggy).  If you enclose the pots in plastic to maintain humidity, leave it open a crack to allow some fresh air to circulate. 

 Keep the pots between 68-75 degrees (20-24°C) in a bright spot, but not in direct sun.  I recommend using a thermometer to ensure that the soil stays at the right temperature, especially if using a heating mat.  Give the pots bright light but not direct sun.  A fluorescent bulb kept 5 inches (12 cm) away provides the right amount of light. 

 The seeds should begin sprouting in 2-3 weeks, although allow up to 6 weeks for any slow ones to sprout, especially at cooler temperatures.  If you kept the pot enclosed in plastic, open it a little more to reduce the risk of stem rot.  The seedlings have tiny root systems when young, so water whenever the soil surface looks dry.  But again, don't keep the soil soggy, just moist.

 I recommend waiting until the plants have a few leaves before transplanting to a larger pot.  Transplant very carefully to avoid breaking the soil ball apart, which can damage the roots 

 Once they have a few leaves, you may give them some morning sun.  Transition them to more sun very gradually.  Remember that this is a cloudforest plant and does not like strong sun.  Over about 40% humidity is recommended.  

 If your potting soil contains fertilizer, your seedlings should need no fertilizer the first 3 weeks.  If you used an medium without nutrients, like coir fiber, feed when the seedlings have their first true leaves with a very dilute (1/8th strength) quality fertilizer, and repeat weekly.

For tips on growing established plants, see here.

 

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Turquoise Puya

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