Sowing tropical seeds isn't difficult, but some species need special precautions. At Plants Direct NT, our nursery near Howard Springs, we are happy to share the techniques we employ.
Soaking
An old and time-saving gardener's trick is to put seeds in a bit of water to speed up germination. Other seeds cannot possibly germinate without soaking in a specific liquid. Since in the Northern Territory, there’s not only a dry season but a wet season too, soaking seeds mimics nature.
Scarification
We admit, the word sounds a bit scary, but sometimes you need to nick the coat of certain seeds with a file or sandpaper. After this coat is thinned or cracked, the water can get in and accelerate the germination process which would otherwise take much longer.
Light
The use of light can help tremendously for some seeds. Contrarily, there are also seeds which will not germinate unless it's nice and dark.
Temperature
It seems self-evident that tropical seeds need tropical conditions before they start sprouting. In some instances, it helps if you also warm up the soil before planting them.
Water
For germination, water is indispensable. Take care, however, not to use too much. Seeds can rot if the soil is too wet. Some sprouts will thrive if you cover them with a plastic bag or transparent cup. Take care though, because others may catch a nasty fungus and die quickly.
Need advice? Turn to Plants Direct NT Nursery near Howard Springs
We're always happy to help fellow gardeners, no matter if they've only just started learning how to tend plants, or are already experienced. Have you successfully germinated particularly difficult seeds? Or are you struggling to grow your plants? Contact or visit our nursery near Howard Springs. We'd love to hear your story.
Growing Tips from Plants Direct NT near Howard Springs
Propagating plants isn't difficult, even if you weren't blessed with green fingers. Often, it's rather a matter of perseverance and a little bit of luck than of skill or knowledge. The positive side is that seeds usually aren't expensive. You can even be fortunate and get some for free from a friend or neighbour. Once you have some, trading is another popular method of getting more. Once a budding gardener holds these tiny grains in their hands, the doubt may arise how to proceed. You will have to invest a bit of time in research. Luckily, there are plenty of good books and reliable websites providing ample information.
Germination alone may require specific techniques. Tools such as a grow light, an incubator, a moisture sensor or an irrigation system may prove invaluable. Most of all, a lot of patience is needed. But as soon as your plant shows its cotyledons (first leaves), your heart will leap for joy. Then follows the tricky business of administering just enough light, water and fertiliser so that your plant thrives.
Howard Springs plants in case a mishap occurs
In every stage of the growing process, things can go wrong. If you've seen a plant sprout from its seed, and if you've tended it with loving care for a long time, it can be disheartening. Don't blame yourself if you encounter a casualty. It's quite normal. At our nursery in Howard Springs, plants can die too, forcing us to throw them on the compost heap and start from scratch. The best and healthiest plants, we keep for you, our customer. Don't hesitate to visit our online store. If you're not sure whether specific plants will do well in your garden, it's our pleasure to help.
Soaking
An old and time-saving gardener's trick is to put seeds in a bit of water to speed up germination. Other seeds cannot possibly germinate without soaking in a specific liquid. Since in the Northern Territory, there’s not only a dry season but a wet season too, soaking seeds mimics nature.
Scarification
We admit, the word sounds a bit scary, but sometimes you need to nick the coat of certain seeds with a file or sandpaper. After this coat is thinned or cracked, the water can get in and accelerate the germination process which would otherwise take much longer.
Light
The use of light can help tremendously for some seeds. Contrarily, there are also seeds which will not germinate unless it's nice and dark.
Temperature
It seems self-evident that tropical seeds need tropical conditions before they start sprouting. In some instances, it helps if you also warm up the soil before planting them.
Water
For germination, water is indispensable. Take care, however, not to use too much. Seeds can rot if the soil is too wet. Some sprouts will thrive if you cover them with a plastic bag or transparent cup. Take care though, because others may catch a nasty fungus and die quickly.
Need advice? Turn to Plants Direct NT Nursery near Howard Springs
We're always happy to help fellow gardeners, no matter if they've only just started learning how to tend plants, or are already experienced. Have you successfully germinated particularly difficult seeds? Or are you struggling to grow your plants? Contact or visit our nursery near Howard Springs. We'd love to hear your story.
Growing Tips from Plants Direct NT near Howard Springs
Propagating plants isn't difficult, even if you weren't blessed with green fingers. Often, it's rather a matter of perseverance and a little bit of luck than of skill or knowledge. The positive side is that seeds usually aren't expensive. You can even be fortunate and get some for free from a friend or neighbour. Once you have some, trading is another popular method of getting more. Once a budding gardener holds these tiny grains in their hands, the doubt may arise how to proceed. You will have to invest a bit of time in research. Luckily, there are plenty of good books and reliable websites providing ample information.
Germination alone may require specific techniques. Tools such as a grow light, an incubator, a moisture sensor or an irrigation system may prove invaluable. Most of all, a lot of patience is needed. But as soon as your plant shows its cotyledons (first leaves), your heart will leap for joy. Then follows the tricky business of administering just enough light, water and fertiliser so that your plant thrives.
Howard Springs plants in case a mishap occurs
In every stage of the growing process, things can go wrong. If you've seen a plant sprout from its seed, and if you've tended it with loving care for a long time, it can be disheartening. Don't blame yourself if you encounter a casualty. It's quite normal. At our nursery in Howard Springs, plants can die too, forcing us to throw them on the compost heap and start from scratch. The best and healthiest plants, we keep for you, our customer. Don't hesitate to visit our online store. If you're not sure whether specific plants will do well in your garden, it's our pleasure to help.