Germinating the seeds
Getting started -- You may plant each seed in individual, small containers. Or you plant them all in a single container, but it may be difficult to transplant them later. Either way, use pots with drainage holes For soil, use a well draining mix
high in organic matter. A typical mix is 2 parts potting soil to 1 part
perlite
(use small- or medium-size perlite, not large chunks), or
coarse sand. An alternate mix is 1 part perlite to 1 part
coir fiber, with some
granular fertilizer mixed in. If you have long-fibered sphagnum moss, sprinkle a small amount over the surface. This helps retain moisture around the seeds while allowing light to reach them, which aids germination. The amount of moss to use is shown in this photo. If you don't have the moss, sprinkle a small amount of your soil mix around the seeds. Then add water until everything is evenly moist (but not soggy). Until the seeds sprout, ensure that the surface soil always stays moist. A plastic dome or bag may be used to maintain moisture, but leave it open slightly to allow some fresh air in. You may need to drip a few drops of water over the seeds every day to keep the seeds moist. The ideal temperature for germination is between 65 to 77 degrees F (18-25°C). A little cooler at night is ok. Avoid letting them get above 80° F (27°C). I recommend placing a minimum/maximum thermometer near the pots, especially if using a heating mat. Keep them
in a bright spot out of direct sun. An LED or fluorescent bulb kept 4 inches (10 cm) away
provides the right amount of lighting (See: "Growing indoors with LED lights"). Growing onward... If the older leaves appear pale/yellowish, the soil may be too dry down in the root zone. If soil moisture levels have been fine, the plant may need more nitrogen fertilizer.. especially if light levels are high. Pests to watch for -- aphids, scale (dark disks on the stems), mealy bugs.
Try using
insecticidal soap
before using stronger remedies, since some may harm the plant.
Contact me if you have questions. - Jeff Strange Wonderful Things
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