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Ochagavia carnea/litoralis

Ochagavia litoralis

 

Your seeds should be planted immediately for best results

 Start them in a well-draining soil mix.  A typical mix is 2 parts potting soil to 1 part perlite (use small- or medium-size perlite, not large chunks) or coarse sand.  An alternate mix is 1 part coco fiber to 1 part perlite, with some slow-release fertilizer mixed in.

 Fill small containers (2 inches / 5 cm tall) with the soil mix, and place a seed or 2 on top. 

 If you have  long-fibered sphagnum moss (not ground peat moss), sprinkle some on the soil surface.  This helps retain moisture around the seeds while allowing light to reach them, which aids germination.  This photo shows how much moss to use.  If you don't have the moss, sprinkle some of your soil mix around the seeds.  Add water until everything is evenly moist (but not soggy).

 These seeds sprout the best after 6 weeks of coldness.  You may put them in the refrigerator, or outdoors if it will stay between 35 and 55 degrees F (2-13°C) for at least 8 hours a day.  They should not be allowed to freeze.  Whether you place them in the refrigerator or outdoors, enclose the pots in a plastic container or bag to maintain moisture, but leave it open slightly so fresh air can enter.

 After 6 weeks (mark your calendar) move them to a spot that will stay about 65-78°F (18-26°C).  A little cooler at night is ok.  Avoid letting them get above 80°F (27°C) for prolonged periods.  I recommend placing a minimum/maximum thermometer near the pots.

 Keep them in bright light out of direct sun. 

 The seeds tend to germinate at different times, usually starting at around 1 to 2 months, and continuing for 3 months.  Once they sprout, give them bright light, but protect them from strong afternoon sun the first few months. Keep the soil evenly moist (but not constantly saturated) the first few months.

Lighting -- Once they sprout, give them bright filtered light.  A bright LED bulb or panel kept 3 inches (8 cm) away provides the right amount of light the first 3-4 months (See: "Growing indoors with LED lights").  

Fertilizing -- The first 2 months, feed every 2 weeks with a small amount of dilute (1/8 strength) liquid fertilizer.  Hydroponic fertilizer is ideal for young seedlings, since it is easily absorbed and contains all essential nutrients.  After 2 months, you may switch to a granular fertilizer that contains micronutrients, following the dosage on the package.

Repotting -- After they are about 3 months old, gently repot them to larger containers.  Avoid direct sun the first week.  After that, gradually increase the sun over several weeks, watching for possible burning.

 I recommend keeping them above 45°F (7°C) the first year, and above 35°F (2°C) the second year.

 More tips on growing Ochagavia are here.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me. 

Happy growing!

- Jeff

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