By Patrick Desnoyers
Bonsai seed germination is the official term for the fine art of multiplying your bonsai plant. It is where, like most plants, seeds sprout after a short period of being dormant or stagnant. A lot of factors influence the dynamics of germinating bonsai seeds. This includes, but is not limited to: time, water, temperature, oxygen and light. As a bonsai owner, you should know the vitality of each of these factors in order to make your bonsai seed germination as profitable and productive as possible.
Bonsai seed germination requires patience on your part. Seed does not grow overnight in any plant, and your bonsai is no exception. You will have to give an extensive amount of time before you truly reap the benefits of sowing for your bonsai's multiplication. The whole thing is an art itself of which you are one of the biggest contributors. It may take so much time and effort, but when you see your bonsai plant grow, you will surely see that it is worth all your time and effort.
One important fact to consider is that you cannot germinate a sleeping seed. A sleeping seed is in the stage of dormancy. In essence, you need to wake it to change it. The process of cold stratification is done for this very purpose. A sandwich bag may be sufficient for your seed or any other closed container with similar features. Moisten vermiculite and place it in the bag. For every single seed, there must be at least ten units of vermiculite. To prevent infestation of fungi, you may also want to add other ingredients such as chemical solutions which are readily available for plant enthusiasts like you. Eighty or ninety days in the refrigerator usually does the trick to awaken the seeds. Doing them by bulk saves time and you will not worry about having compromised quality for as long as you have enough vermiculite to back it up.
There is one general technique of germinating bonsai, and since it is an exotic plant, you need to take extra care as you do it. Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for about two hours before sowing it. Then you can place it in a pot about 7 centimeters deep or deeper if you are to germinate it outdoors. The aim of doing this is to have the bonsai seedling take root.
It is important to note that as soon as the seedlings have their roots on the soil where you have sown them, you need to place it in its containers. Observe proper timing and don't do this on a winter. Find a time where you can do it in spring or summer. Before you transfer the plant, you need to water it first a few hours before. Establish it in a safe and shady area for half a month with a steady stream of light and moisture.
About the Author: Owner of http://www.mishobonsai.com , has been practicing bonsai for over 8 years. Found a distinct interest in propagation, especially seeds. Mishobonsai.com sells tree seed and provides bonsai tree informations.
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