Re: Magnolia Trees
Subject: Re: Magnolia Trees
> > Schmiege wrote:
> >
> > Today I collected a handful of bright red seeds from my Magnolia
> > tree. They are still soft and have thread like tails. What is the
best
> > way to germanate these seeds?
> >
> > Usually I put my seeds in a plastic cup which has holes punched in
the
> > bottom and use potting mix. The top of the cup is covered loosely
> > with plastic wrap. My watering is done from the bottom.
It is important to soak the seeds for a day or two to soften and remove
the pulp covering them - imitating them passing through the birds. I
have done this, then planted them outdoors (imitating nature again) with
a successful germination rate the following spring.
Diane Pertson
Vancouver Island, Zone 8
> >
> > Thanks for your help
> >
> Lorraine
> I have never tried to grow magnolia seeds but my propagating book says
> the can be sown in autumn or spring in slight heat, so I would suggest
> using your usual technique, and then putting the cup in a slightly
warm
> place.
>
> If you don't have an actual propagator, a spot favoured by NZ home
> growers is on top of the fridge!!. A warm airing cupboard can also be
> used, but you have to be alert for germination or your seedlings will
> become drawn in the dark.
>
> Moira
>
> --
> Tony & Moira Ryan <theryans@xtra.co.nz>
> Wainuiomata,
> New Zealand (astride the "Ring of Fire" in the SW Pacific).
>
