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What is the best way to grow plumeria from seed?

14 years ago

I've read so many different things and have tried several methods, but I'll still not sure what's the best way to germinate plumeria from seed. Does anyone have something out there that really works well? What temperature is best? Does it help to have light on them? What about air circulation? Does it really help to soak the seeds, or place them between a wet paper towell for 24 hours? Sorry for all of the questions, but sometimes I'm successful and sometimes not. Thanks!

Kevin

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Comments (4)

franktank232
14 years ago
Same question here. I have seeds coming any day. I was thinking about using bottom heat.
Dave in NoVA • N. Virginia • zone 7A
14 years ago
There are probably a gazillion different ways to grow them...on wet paper towel, floating in styrofoam 'boats', etc. Try to do a search in this forum and see what comes up.

I've only grown a few from seed. I started them over winter under lights, just barely sticking them in soil with the wing up, and made sure not to overwater them as they could damp off. I think warm temps help a lot. So you may want to try using a heat mat to get that soil up around 80 degrees or so. I would not start them outside if your temps are below 60 degrees. I'm sure others have better tips.
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rusty_blackhaw
14 years ago
I've tried this a couple times. The first occasion was indoors and I had maybe 10% germination at best. The second time I started 100 seeds outdoors in the heat of summer in full sun. I think nearly every seed germinated.

Both times I planted in soilless mix and covered seeds to their thickness.

My conclusion is that having fresh seed is critical, and good heat and light help.

My only problem now is that I have about 40 seedlings potted up and growing under lights, with another 50 still in their community flat for whom I have no room (I've given away the others).
arctictropical
Original Author
14 years ago
Thanks everyone, for your input! I think my problem has been not having fresh seed, because I've had one variety do very well and another variety not germinate at all. When I questioned the plumeria nursery that I purchased the seed from, they said that their seed was always fresh, but I have my doubts. Thanks again! By the way, I have one seedling, only about 2-3 months old, and 4 inches high, that is branching from every leaf node. There are four branches so far. Another one about the same age and height, that is also branching. Have you had this happen very often?

Kevin

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