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Germinating the seeds
Plant your seeds right away for best results.
Getting started -- You may start the seeds in small pots 2 inches (5 cm) tall and wide, with drainage holes. Fill each container with a well-draining mix. A typical mix is 2 parts potting soil to 1 part perlite. Don't compress the soil. Water it so that it's evenly moist (use bottled water if your tap water is bad). You may remove the feathery "wings" on each seed if you wish. Sprinkle 3 or 4 seeds in each pot, then lightly press them lightly into the soil surface, leaving part of the seed visible, since light is needed for the seeds to sprout. Then drip several drops of water over the seeds.
Until the seeds sprout, ensure that the soil surface stays moist at all times. To keep the soil from drying out, you may enclose the pots in a clear plastic container or bag. Keep it open a crack to allow some fresh air in. Once a day, drip a few drops over the surface if it is drying out.
Keep the pots at about 65-73 degrees (18-24°C). Avoid keeping them above 77°F (25°C). I recommend placing a thermometer near the pots, especially if using a heating mat.
Place them in bright spot, but not in direct sun. A fluorescent bulb kept 4 inches (10 cm) away provides the right amount of light.
The seeds should begin sprouting within 4-5 weeks, and can continue for another month. Once they sprout, increase the amount of fresh air by opening the bag or container some more. Continue keeping the soil surface moist for the first 3-4 weeks, because the roots have a small root system. After 3-4 weeks, you may allow the surface to dry out, but keep the lower soil moist (but not soggy). Continue giving bright light, but not direct sun.
When the plants are a month old, you may thin them down to one seedling per pot. Or you may transplant them all to bigger pots when they are 2-3 months old. Transplant carefully to avoid damaging the roots.
After 3 months, you may give them some morning sun. Always shade the plants from strong sun. Over about 40-50% humidity is recommended.
Feed about every 2 months with a slow-release (pelleted) fertilizer. If your potting soil contains nutrients (check the label) your newborn seedlings shouldn't need feeding the first 3 weeks.
More information on this plant is here.
Good luck!
Jeff
Strange Wonderful Things
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