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Re: Alstroemeria



On Thu, 16 Oct 1997 Ccopuntia@aol.com wrote:

> I have just been given some freshly harvested Alstroemeria seeds.  After
> looking up the sowing instructions in several books, I've found the info to
> be a bit confusing.  Anybody have experience with these seeds they can share?
> 
> The T&M catalog advises pre-chilling for 3 weeks, although none of my books
> mention it.  Necessary?  Also, the books advise a warm water soak for 12
> hours prior to sowing.  Another mentions that A. dislikes root disturbance,
> so I'm thinking of sowing in plug trays.  This will be under controlled
> conditions using flourescents, with temps between 65-70.  
> 
Most of the above suggestions will help -- I pre-soak most large seed.  
Against the T&M advice, though, I've had best luck following a routine 
advised by a writer in the British Columbia Alpine Garden Society 
bulletin.  Start seed warm [indoors] for 4-5 weeks, around 20-25 degrees 
C [or 70-75 F], transfer to a cool place [aka my basement], around 45-50 
F.  Germination takes place within two weeks at the cooler temperature.

This was advised for species Alstromeria, some of which occur at high 
elevations in southern South America.  The hybrids, which you likely have 
may be easier:  I see that the Norman Deno compendium gives the highest 
germination efficiency when fresh seed is held at 70 degrees F.  These 
can be rather slow --  from 2 to 8 weeks -- for complete germination.

You don't need to put the pots under lights until germination takes 
place -- I think the seed should be planted deeply, and may germinate 
better in the absence of light.

If you're in a mild climate, the seedlings might well do best outdoors 
with some protection [like a cold frame].

Loren Russell, Corvallis, oregon
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