Germinating the seeds
Plant your seeds when you receive them for the best germination Getting started -- Use any small containers or cups that have drainage holes. Use a well draining soil mix, such as 2 parts potting soil to 1 part perlite. An alternate mix is equal parts of coir fiber and perlite, with some slow-release fertilizer mixed in. Fill each container, place a seed or 2 on top, and sprinkle a thin layer of soil on top - about 1/8 inch or 2-3 mm. Add water until the soil is evenly moist (but not fully saturated). Until the seeds sprout, ensure that the soil surface stays moist. An easy way maintain moisture is to enclose the pots in a plastic dome or bag. Leave it open slightly to allow some fresh air in. You may need to drip a few drops of water on the surface every day or 2 to keep it moist. Keep the pots at about 65-77 degrees F (18-25°C). A little cooler at night is ok, but avoid letting them get above 80°F (27°C). I recommend keeping a minimum/maximum thermometer near the pots, especially if using a heating mat. The seeds should begin sprouting in 4 to 6 weeks, but allow up to 3 months for any slow ones to sprout, especially at cooler temperatures. Give your seedlings bright light, but avoid direct sunlight for a few weeks. I recommend growing them indoors for at least 2-3 months. Growing onward... Since this plant is rare, i don't have much information on its climate tolerances. It is a highland plant, so it is accustomed to temperatures that are mild year-round with nights that are cool. Consider it experimental in areas that regularly get above the low 80s (28 degrees C), especially if nights are warm (over 65°F / 18°C). It probably can only handle a few degrees of frost. I recommend protecting it from freezing temperatures. It prefers filtered sunlight; shade it from strong afternoon sun. Over about 40% humidity is best. Give the vine something to climb through, like a bush, a trellis, or an arbor. Instead of pruning any overly long shoots, consider turning them to grow in another direct. Watering -- Aim to keep the soil evenly moist most of the time. Avoid letting it dry out completely, and also avoid keeping it constantly soggy. Feeding -- The plant has average fertilizer needs. Feed about every 2 months with a general-purpose fertilizer that contains micronutrients. If you have any questions, feel free to email me. Have fun growing them! - Jeff Strange Wonderful Things
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