Here are some excerps I collected on Palm
seed germination. I hope they help some.
Depending on the species,
seed viability varies from several weeks to six to twelve months. Small
seeds typically have shorter duration of viability. Understory and more tropical
seeds likewise have a shorter time from ripening to loss of viability. As anticipated,
seeds that are from more arid habitats typically have longer viability windows.
Check the
seed’s general appearance. Good
seeds look fresher and feel heavier in the hand. Old
seeds look desiccated and feel lighter.
Check
seed size. If you know what a
seed is should look like and
seeds received are much smaller, either you have bad
seeds or another species.
Pinch Test: Viable
seeds never collapse when pinched between your thumb and forefinger. If the
seeds do collapse, they are either immature
seeds or they are old, desiccated
seeds with internal air cavities from rot to the embryo or endocarp. Discard such
seeds.
Float Test: Viable
seeds invariably sink to the bottom when soaked in water and bad
seeds float for the reasons described above. This is providing that any outer fibrous covering layer of the
seed has been removed. There are a few exceptions, but “floaters” usually do not germinate.
Remove fruit from
seed.
Soak for no more than 24 hours.
A simply constructed germination box made out of styrofoam with a plastic lid can be constructed cheaply and work well. It is ideal for the hobbyist. A simple warming device such as a light bulb can be utilized.
If not utilizing a
greenhouse or germination box, provide your
seeds with the warmest area possible with good humidity and away from direct, hot sunlight.
Humidity levels of 60 to 70% are ideal. Avoid overly damp locations or rot will develop.
Utilize bottom heat to speed germination.