Marah fabaceus
- Subject: Marah fabaceus
- From: B* G*
- Date: Thu, 25 Apr 2002 23:37:29 -0700
I have just acquired four seeds of this California native (I think this is
it, it could be M. macrocarpa but i'm not sure). The common name is
manroot, or California Cucumber (albeit a spiny sea-urchin looking ping
pong ball shaped cucumber). Anyway, they were located in their spiny fruit
still on the vine.
Before I ask how to germinate them, something to note is the fruit was
still a bit green, turning yellow, but the spines are still green. The
main body of the fruit was turning yellow. I didnt know it would do this,
but it split not too long after I picked it (looked like it exploded). The
inside was still moist and the flesh was still giving off water also. So
i'm unsure if the seeds will even germinate. Does anyone know?
So, here's the main purpose of this email: What is the best way to
germinate the seeds? Do they need any special treatments like lupines, or
just stick them in the ground and keep them watered? Since the pod split,
does it also mean the seeds are ready to go in the ground, or should I let
them dry for a certain amount of time?
Barry
USDA Zone 9b, Sunset Zone 17
Sandy soil, foggy summers
Chapparal land
