Here is a picture of the plant that I bought the seeds for today.
I can't wait to get them. I like the bird of paradise flowers they are so unusual so I'm really hoping I can get this to grow. Does anyone have any planting/growing instructions for me please?
TK,
I'm growing these too. I bought the seeds when I was in Hawaii in 2002. My plants need to be re-potted at this point.
You need to soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting. I used a cactus/succulent mix, added perlite, and some compost to try to simulate tropical soil to plant them in. The germination period is 4-6 weeks. Yes weeks. I believe that placing them on a heating mat will help germination. The plants like to stay moist but don't like to sit in standing water. I'll double check the instructions that came with my seeds when I get home.
This is my 3rd attempt at growing BoP. The first time, they never germinated. The second time, the germinated and then died a month or two later. This time, I have 4 plants. At least one of them is white. I didn't do a good job of labling the seedlings. I seem to recall reading that it can take 7 years before brid of paradise will bloom. Talk about a lesson in patience. Mine are now 2-3 years old. I'll include a picture of mine once I have them re-potted.
Good luck with your plants.
That is going to take a lot of patience. I guess it will be my patience practice plant. I'll remember to scarify them. I'm wondering what I can use as a file. The only thing I have are emry boards lol. that's very girlie of me isn't it. Hum, I'll have to think about that one.
I did good waiting on the caladium. I guess maybe that was my practice run with patience. But they didn't take as long as the directions said they would so that may not count.
Thanks for the information. I'm going to paste it in my garden log.
No file, no problem. You cook, don't you? Check your kitchen gadgets... a multi-purpose grater will do just fine.
http://thecookskitchen.com/browse_4607
oh I have a grader. Never would have thought of that lol. Thanks Papito.
LOL
Seeds, I hope you are patient!
Thats strelitzia nicolai the 'Giant Strelitzia'.
It will grow huge and beautiful, but it could take up to six years before you get a single flower.
Beautiful plant though.
Good luck
Yeah I did see that. But this is the first year I have had houseplants that are growing and appear to be doing well. And I am so pleased. I thought I would try some exotics as long as I could start them from seed and it didn't cost me that much.