Growing Alstroemeria from seed can be a challenging and time-consuming process. While it is possible to grow these beautiful flowers from seed, there are a few important factors to consider.
Firstly, it’s worth noting that Alstroemeria seeds may not produce plants that are identical to their parent plants. This is because Alstroemeria plants are often hybrids, which means that they have been cross-pollinated with other varieties. As a result, the seeds collected from these plants may produce offspring with different characteristics, such as flower color, height, or vigor. This can be both exciting and unpredictable, as you never know exactly what you’ll get.
If you’re up for the challenge, here’s a step-by-step guide to growing Alstroemeria from seed:
1. Seed collection: Alstroemeria seeds are typically found within the seed pods that develop after the flowers have faded. Wait until the seed pods turn brown and start to split open before collecting the seeds. Gently open the pods and collect the seeds, being careful not to damage them.
2. Seed preparation: Alstroemeria seeds have a hard outer coat that needs to be scarified or softened to promote germination. You can do this by soaking the seeds in warm water for 24 hours or by carefully nicking the seed coat with a sharp knife.
3. Seed sowing: Fill seed trays or small pots with a well-draining seed starting mix. Moisten the mix before sowing the seeds. Place the seeds on the surface of the mix and lightly press them into the soil. Avoid burying the seeds too deeply, as they require light to germinate.
4. Germination: Alstroemeria seeds can be slow to germinate, often taking several weeks or even months. Maintain a consistent temperature of around 70°F (21°C) and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Covering the trays or pots with a plastic dome or plastic wrap can help retain moisture and create a greenhouse-like environment.
5. Seedling care: Once the seedlings emerge, provide them with plenty of bright, indirect light. As they grow, thin them out to prevent overcrowding, allowing only the strongest seedlings to remain. Transplant the seedlings into individual pots when they have developed a few sets of true leaves.
6. Potting up: As the seedlings grow, they will need to be potted up into larger containers to allow for root development. Use a well-draining potting mix and provide support for the growing stems, as Alstroemeria plants tend to be tall and can benefit from staking.
7. Hardening off: When the weather warms up and there is no longer a risk of frost, gradually acclimate the seedlings to outdoor conditions. Start by placing them in a sheltered spot for a few hours each day and gradually increase their exposure to direct sunlight and outdoor temperatures over the course of a week or two.
8. Planting out: Once the seedlings are hardened off, they can be planted out into their permanent garden location. Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Alstroemerias prefer slightly acidic soil, so you may need to amend the soil if necessary. Space the plants according to their mature size, as they can spread quite wide.
9. Care and maintenance: Alstroemerias require regular watering, especially during dry periods. Mulching around the base of the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize the plants regularly with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.
It’s important to note that growing Alstroemeria from seed can be a lengthy process. It typically takes several years for the plants to reach flowering size. However, if you have the patience and the desire to experiment with different varieties, it can be a rewarding endeavor.
Personal experience: I have grown Alstroemerias from seed in the past, and while it was a slow process, it was fascinating to see the different flower colors and patterns that emerged from the seeds. Some plants turned out to be more vigorous and taller than others, while some had unique flower shapes. It was a delightful surprise to witness the diversity that can result from growing Alstroemeria from seed.
While Alstroemerias can be grown from seed, it requires patience, experimentation, and a willingness to accept variations in flower color and characteristics. If you’re up for the challenge and willing to wait several years for the plants to reach maturity, growing Alstroemerias from seed can be a rewarding experience.
