Growing vinca from seed can be a bit challenging, but with the right conditions and care, it is definitely possible. Vinca is a tender crop that is sensitive to frost, so it is important to wait until all danger of frost has passed before transplanting seedlings or sowing seeds outside. However, in cool climates, vinca seeds can be sown indoors about 6 weeks before the last expected frost.
To successfully grow vinca from seed, it is important to create a warm and well-lit environment for the seeds to germinate. You can start by filling seed trays or pots with a good quality seed starting mix. Make sure the mix is well-draining to prevent waterlogging, as vinca does not like to sit in wet soil.
Next, sow the vinca seeds on the surface of the soil and lightly press them down. It is not necessary to cover the seeds with soil, as they require light to germinate. However, you can lightly sprinkle a thin layer of vermiculite or fine sand on top to help retain moisture.
Place the seed trays or pots in a warm location, ideally around 70-75°F (21-24°C), and provide them with plenty of natural light. If you don’t have access to sufficient natural light, you can use grow lights to supplement the light requirements.
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. You can mist the soil with water or use a spray bottle to avoid disturbing the seeds. It is important to ensure that the soil doesn’t dry out, as this can hinder germination.
Germination usually takes around 7-14 days, but it can vary depending on the conditions. Once the seedlings have emerged, it is important to provide them with adequate airflow to prevent damping off, a fungal disease that can affect young seedlings. You can achieve this by using a small fan or by gently brushing your hand over the seedlings a few times a day.
As the seedlings grow, it is important to thin them out to avoid overcrowding. This will allow the remaining seedlings to have enough space and resources to grow strong and healthy. You can carefully remove the weaker seedlings, leaving only the strongest ones.
Once the danger of frost has passed, and the seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted outside into the garden or containers. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Vinca plants prefer full sun but can tolerate some partial shade.
When transplanting, make sure to space the seedlings according to the recommended spacing for the particular variety of vinca you are growing. This will ensure that the plants have enough room to grow and spread without competing for resources.
After transplanting, provide regular watering to establish the plants. Once established, vinca plants are relatively drought-tolerant, but they will still benefit from consistent moisture during dry periods.
It is also important to note that vinca plants are susceptible to certain pests and diseases, such as aphids and root rot. Regular monitoring and appropriate pest control measures, such as using insecticidal soap or neem oil, can help prevent or manage these issues.
Growing vinca from seed can be a bit challenging, but with the right conditions and care, it is definitely possible. By providing a warm and well-lit environment, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged, and maintaining good airflow, you can successfully germinate and grow vinca seedlings. Once the danger of frost has passed, transplanting the seedlings outside and providing them with adequate spacing and care will help them thrive in your garden or containers.
