Quick Overview
TheAraucaria araucana , usually know as the monkey puzzle tree , is a majestic coniferous tree aboriginal to the Andes of Chile and Argentina . Its classifiable leaf andunique coneshavecaptivated gardenersand enthusiasts alike . If you ’re keen on cultivating this iconic Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree from seed , here ’s a comprehensive usher to help you sail the cognitive process successfully .
Gathering the Seeds
The first step insowing Araucaria araucana seedsis to gather them from mature retinal cone . Look for cone that have move around brown and are initiate to open . Gently shake the cone to release the source , which are large , triangular , and have a hard outer scale .
Scarification
Thehard seed coatof Araucaria araucana seeds require scarification to improve germination rates . This unconscious process involves break down theouter layerof the seed to permit water and O to hand the embryo . you may scarify the seeds bygently rubbingthem with emery paper or nicking the semen coating with a sharp tongue .
Stratification
Stratification is a cognitive operation that simulates the instinctive insensate and dampish stipulation that Araucaria araucana seeds experience in theirnative home ground . Thishelps breakdown the seed ’s quiescency andpromotes sprouting . Place the scarify seeds in a moist medium , such as vermiculite or peat moss , and refrigerate them for 3 - 4 weeks .
Sowing the Seeds
After stratification , it ’s time to sow in the seeded player . Choose a well - draining seed - starting mix and fill a germ tray orindividual potsto within 1/2 inch of the top . Sow the come 1/2 inch late andgently coverthem with soil . Water the seed exhaustively and keep them moist but not soggy .
Germination
Araucaria araucana seeds typically pullulate within 2 - 4 weeks . Place theseed trayor pot in a warm , sunny locationwith temperatures between 60 - 70 ° F ( 16 - 21 ° C ) . Keep thesoil moistand nullify overwatering .
Seedling Care
Once the seedlings emerge , provide them with plenty of light and continue to water them on a regular basis . Fertilize the seedling softly every few weeks with abalanced plant food . As the seedling turn , gradually acclimatethem to outdoor term by bring out them todirect sunlightfor increase period .
Transplanting
When the seedling have developed several set oftrue leavesand are 3 - 4inches marvelous , they can be transplant into individual pots or into the garden . Choose a well - drain soil and institute the seedling at the same depth they were in theseed tray . body of water the seedling profoundly and keep them well - watered for the first few weeks after transplanting .
Tips for Success
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q : How long does it take forAraucaria araucana seedsto germinate?A : Germination typically occurswithin 2 - 4 week . Q : Can Isow Araucaria araucana seeds directlyin the garden?A : It ’s better to start theseeds indoorsand transplantation them outdoors when they have develop some size . Q : How often should I inseminate Araucaria araucana seedlings?A : Fertilize theseedlings lightlyevery few weeks with a balanced fertilizer . Q : How long does it take forAraucaria araucana treesto gain maturity?A : Araucaria araucana treescan take several old age toreach maturity , often over a decade . Q : AreAraucaria araucana tree easyto grow?A : While they are relatively low - maintenance , Araucaria araucana trees prefer specific turn conditionsand need some patience to attain due date .