How to keep seeds of ice plant and how to collect seeds

Where do ice plant seeds come from?

Ice vegetable is a herbaceous plant of the Aizoaceae family and the genus Ipomoea. Like most vegetables, ice vegetable blooms and sets seeds. The harvesting period is about three months, after which it will bloom. A white flower with a slightly fragrant smell will bloom at each internode growth point, which is particularly beautiful. Seeds can be harvested from ice vegetable, which provides convenience for future planting.

Ice plant seeds

When the ice plant capsule turns yellow and the water content is below 20%, the germination rate of the harvested seeds is the highest, followed by the germination rate of brown fruits, and the worst of green fruits. Therefore, when the ice plant capsule turns yellow, it should be harvested in time, then dried in an environment of 40 degrees for 5.5 hours, crushed, and then sieved through a 0.7-0.9 mm mesh. The germination rate of the seeds is the highest.

Keep your own seeds

Pay attention to whether the ice plant is a hybrid or a conventional variety. There will usually be a note on the packaging bag. Conventional varieties can be kept for yourself, but hybrid varieties cannot be kept for yourself.

Ice plant seed collection

The seeds of ice plant are very small, even smaller than sesame seeds, and it is difficult for them to break through the soil, so the seeds must be sown in fine sand mixed with soil. Wait for the seeds to break through the soil and grow two tender leaves, then move them to a flowerpot or foam box and sprinkle some organic fertilizer.

Ice plant seed storage

Ice plant seeds can be stored at room temperature, but if planted every other year, the germination rate will be reduced. It is best to store them in a cool and well-ventilated place.

Time and method of planting ice plant seeds

The time for sowing ice plant is generally in autumn. It is a relatively drought-resistant plant and can tolerate a certain degree of salinity. Its growth cycle is relatively short, taking about half a year, and it is also relatively simple to cultivate.

The seeds of ice plant are very small. When sowing, you need to dig a hole in the soil, then sow the seeds directly into the soil, cover them with a thin layer of soil, and let the growth temperature reach about 20 degrees. They will germinate soon.

If you want the roots of ice plant to grow healthily, you need soil with good air permeability and drainage. The soil humidity should not be too high. When planting at home, it should be placed in a relatively warm place, but not directly exposed to the sun. It should be properly shaded and placed in a well-ventilated place. This will help the evaporation of water and maintain the moisture of the soil.