Question

DSCN0198.JPG   Hi Tom,
I live in Los Angeles, CA. I need advice on how to germinate the seeds from my 36 years old araucaria heterophylla. I'd appreciate your advice.
By the way I have never than any gardening
Best regards,
Joshua

Answer
Hi Joshua,
Thanx for your question.  I absolutely adore these trees and wish we could grow them where I live.  But, I'm in frosty, cold Kansas.  I lived in Hawai'i for several years and we were in Maui in 2010 and saw some fine specimens of this tree, the Norfolk Island Pine.  

Using compost or soil less mix, place the seed flat, on moist, not soggy planting medium and cover the pot or container with clear plastic.  Do not place in a window or the sun will cook the pot.  Place underneath a 40-watt shop light suspended 8 inches above the pot.  Keep moist and warm.  The seeds will germinate in 10-15 days.  When the seedlings are large enough to handle, gently prick them out and plant in separate pots.  When they are ready to go outdoors, place pots in a shady area for about 10 days to acclimatize the seedlings to the outdoors.  Then plant in full sun.  I hope this helps.
Tom