admin istrator posted on March 30, 2010 18:57
Starting Iochroma from Seed
By John Curran
The seedpods of Iochroma are a woody berries, each containing several tiny pale oval seeds.
If the berry is dry, it will be necessary to soak it overnight to loosen the seeds; the pulp will become gummy. If the berry is still moist, the seeds can be rubbed out without soaking.
For best germination, the seeds will need to be ripe, but not too old.
The seeds should be barely pressed into a moist and porous seed-starting mixture, as they need light---but not full sun--- to sprout. Fluorescent lights are ideal. Bottom heat may be beneficial; germination occurs at about 65-75 degrees F. The seed flat should be covered to maintain high humidity, then gradually removed as the seeds sprout. Enclosing the seed tray in a plastic bag will suffice.
Under ideal conditions, germination may be quite rapid, in about a week or less. At other times, it could take 3-4 weeks or even longer. Patience may be required!