How to plant Catharanthus roseus seeds best
Let's talk about how to plant Catharanthus roseus seeds best and share some knowledge about the four steps of seedling raising for Catharanthus roseus flowers. Follow the editor to find out more!
Catharanthus roseus is also known as pot marigold, with many varieties. The most notable feature is that the color of the flowers differs depending on the variety during the flowering period, resulting in a colorful display and high ornamental value. Catharanthus roseus is often seen in flower beds, but it can also be grown in pots and placed on balconies or windowsills, offering high ornamental value. There are two methods to propagate Catharanthus roseus: cutting and seeding, with seeding being the most common. As for how to plant Catharanthus roseus seeds to improve survival rates and ensure rapid germination, I will share some tips with you.
Why should Catharanthus roseus be propagated by seeding?
Catharanthus roseus can be propagated by cutting. Generally, when propagating some flowering plants, we would use cutting as it saves time, reduces management, and cuts costs. However, the survival rate varies for different plants. For example, common roses or jasmine have a high survival rate when propagated by cutting. However, due to its own characteristics, Catharanthus roseus is more challenging to propagate by cutting and requires more experience and care knowledge to succeed. Therefore, seeding is a simpler method and improves the survival rate, making it the preferred method.
What kind of seeds are needed for Catharanthus roseus seeding propagation?
No matter what kind of flowering plant you are planting, seed selection is crucial. Good quality seeds improve the survival rate and ensure rapid germination. Poor quality seeds can affect germination and prevent the successful growth of seedlings. Therefore, when propagating Catharanthus roseus by seeding, it is essential to select high-quality seeds to improve the germination rate.
1. Full development: To improve the survival rate when propagating Catharanthus roseus, it is necessary to choose fully developed seeds. These seeds are easy to identify as they are plump, larger in size, and look fresh.
2. Strong vitality: It is generally recommended to use seeds collected from the current harvest, as these seeds have a higher survival rate and can germinate successfully. If using seeds from the previous year, they may be affected by diseases or pests, or their germination rate may be affected due to prolonged storage. Therefore, it is best to use fresh seeds when propagating Catharanthus roseus.
How to handle Catharanthus roseus seeds?
For seeding propagation of flowering plants, different seeds require different handling methods. There are usually two methods of seed handling. Depending on the seed's characteristics, an appropriate method should be chosen to improve root growth and germination rates.
1. Water germination: For seeds with thick skins, if not treated, they may germinate slowly or even rot in the soil. For seeds with thick skins, water germination can be used, which involves soaking the seeds in cold or warm water to allow them to swell and crack open before planting.
2. Shell breaking: For seeds with hard outer shells, if not treated, direct seeding can hinder growth. Therefore, shell-breaking treatment is necessary. For example, seeds of wintersweet or美人蕉 (banana tree) are hard and need to be broken open with a knife before soaking in warm water for a period before planting to ensure rapid root growth and germination.
Catharanthus roseus seeds are first wrapped in a green shell, which needs to be removed to reveal the blackish-brown seeds. The seed coat is not very thick, and a mild water germination method can be used. First, prepare some warm water, add some myclobutanil and root powder, and then soak the seeds in the warm water for 24 hours before planting.
How to plant Catharanthus roseus seeds best
How to propagate Catharanthus roseus by seeding?
For successful seeding propagation of Catharanthus roseus, it is important to choose the right time. Different planting times can lead to different results. For example, planting in winter or summer is not conducive to seed growth, leading to low germination and survival rates due to unsuitable temperatures. Therefore, the best time for seeding propagation of Catharanthus roseus is in spring when the temperature is more suitable, improving survival rates and seed growth, leading to rapid root growth and germination.
1. Potting soil: When propagating Catharanthus roseus, it is necessary to prepare potting soil. The choice of flowerpot can be based on personal preference, whether a long pot or a round pot, but it must have drainage holes for proper drainage and aeration. The soil used for seeding should be well-draining and aerated. A mix of peat and perlite can be used, or leaf mold can be used without adding base fertilizer.
2. Seeding: Once the time is right, the seeds are treated, and the necessary items are prepared, it's time to start planting. First, spread the seeds evenly on the soil surface, making sure not to pile them together, as this can affect normal growth. After sowing, cover the surface with a thin layer of sand, about 1 centimeter thick, then water the seeds thoroughly using a spray or by pouring water over the pot. Cover with a layer of plastic film and place in a shaded, well-ventilated area to care for.
How to care for Catharanthus roseus after seeding?
1. Sunlight: Since newly seeded Catharanthus roseus is still in the seed stage, it should not be placed in a position where it can be directly exposed to sunlight, as this can cause the seeds to dry out or rot in the soil. It is best to place them in a shaded, well-ventilated area to ensure successful root growth and germination. The ideal temperature for the growing environment is 20~25°C for rapid germination. Once the seeds have successfully rooted and germinated, they can be gradually moved to a sunnier location for healthier growth.
2. Watering: Watering after seeding is crucial. Improper watering can affect the health of the seeds, leading to failed germination. For example, if the seeds lack water for an extended period, they will dry out and fail to root and germinate. Conversely, excessive soil moisture and waterlogging can cause seed rot. After watering thoroughly once, it is important to monitor the soil's moisture level, keeping it slightly moist. Watering should not be done by pouring, as it can wash away the seeds. Instead, use a spray or pour water gently.
In summary, seeding propagation of Catharanthus roseus is relatively simple. By learning the above seeding propagation methods and caring for the plants properly, you can see the seeds rooted and germinated in about 15~20 days. When they first germinate, they should not be placed in a location with strong sunlight. Instead, place them in a location with scattered light, and then move them to a sunnier spot later. When the seedlings grow to about 5~6 centimeters tall and have 6~8 pairs of true leaves, they can be transplanted to other locations for further cultivation and care.
The above information about how to plant Catharanthus roseus seeds best and the four steps of seedling raising is provided by Green Enthusiast Network [www.lvzhimi.com] for everyone to learn and understand!