Question
Caesalpinia Gilliesii
Whenever I go to the Canary Islands I always seek out the shrub Caesalpinia Gilliesii. I have brought home some pods, one of which has split open to reveal seeds. What is the best way, if any, to propagate them in this cold climate of the UK?
AnswerThe key is to start the seeds indoors and care for them there until all danger of frost passes next spring.
Propagating from seed is a relatively easy process. You should place the pods in a paper bag and allow them to dry for several days. Transfer them at this point to a sealed zip-lock bag and place it in the refrigerator. You must store seeds in this manner for a minimum of three months to simulate the dormant period needed for germination.
When you are ready to sow the seeds next spring, you can shake the bag until the seeds dislodge. Sow them as you would any other seed.
Note: Soaking seeds in tepid water does help speed germination, but you need to be careful as soaking them too long can cause them to rot. I never soak small seeds, but do soak the larger ones, such as sunflower seeds, for four hours in lukewarm water.
I would offer one word of caution about propagating from seed. Seeds grown from your own plants will not necessarily inherit the same traits as the parent plant. The majority of plants sold today are hybrids. Hybrids are bred for specific colors, growing habits, and disease resistance not found in heirloom plants. Hybrid seed are genetically created from two different parent plants by breeders for the characteristics described on the seed packet. You should only propagate your own seed if they are harvested from heirlooms or open-pollinated varieties. These plants will produce seed which will replicate the characteristics of the parent plant. If unsure, you should assume they are hybrids.
Finally, cover the pot with a clear piece of lightweight plastic. Place the pot in indirect sunlight on an east window sill or under fluorescent lighting. After two weeks, check to see if the plant has rooted by slightly pulling on the stem. If you feel resistance, remove the plastic covering, and be sure to keep the soil moist. The plant should then be treated as any other seedling.
Good luck, and please write again if you ever need assistance.
Regards,
Mike
