How to Multiply Sissoo Trees for Grafting
- 1). Collect sissoo seed pods in November when the foliage is gone from the tree. The pods stay on the tree most of the winter. Seeds are best harvested from fresh pods and planted immediately for best germination results.
- 2). Break open the pods and separate the seeds. Fill the bowl with room temperature water, and soak the seeds for 24 to 48 hours. Drain the water and save the seeds.
- 3). Mix equal parts potting soil and compost, and fill the seed trays. Press the seeds 1/2 inch into the soil, 3 inches apart. Mist the trays until they are evenly wet, and place the lids on them.
- 4). Plug in a seed-warming mat and put the trays on top. The mat should be at 70 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, and the ambient temperature of the room should be the same. Sissoo trees are native to warm climates and need fairly high temperatures to germinate.
- 5). Check the trays daily to make certain the seeds are moist but not soggy. Germination time is inconsistent and may vary by as much as a week. Not every seed will germinate. The average is between 60 and 80 percent germination.
- 6). Move the flats to a sunny location after germination. Allow the plants to grow until they each have two pairs of true leaves, then transplant them to the 4-inch pots. Use the same potting and compost mix for the seedlings. Move them outdoors when temperatures are at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit and there is no danger of frost.
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