Germinating Ficus Seeds

Hi everyone,


I've grown a number of different species of Ficus from seed over the years, but am curious to other people's method when it comes to getting the seeds to germinate. I've found the seeds need light, so I plant them on the surface of the soil. They're so small though, I find that keeping the soil moist is difficult, as misting with a spray bottle will disperse the seeds, and watering would drown them and push them lower into the soil.

I'm considering getting some of those peat pots that absorb water, and planting my seeds on top of those, then placing those little pots into the greenhouse that they normally come with. That way I can add water to the tray and the pots absorb it.

So, how do you germinate them?

Just a question: Why cultivate Ficus from seed when cuttings are faster and probably a lot easier.

Yes Vance, I'm well aware. For harder to find species seed is the only way to go. I know how much easier cuttings are and go that route when possible.

Ryan wrote:Yes Vance, I'm well aware. For harder to find species seed is the only way to go. I know how much easier cuttings are and go that route when possible.

Thank you I hoped there was a reason that made sense other than being stubborn about growing stuff from seed.

Lol I know I know. I'm not one to grow from seed unless I have to.

Have you considered putting the seeds on the soil surface then covering them with a light layer of sphagnum moss?

KennedyMarx wrote:Have you considered putting the seeds on the soil surface then covering them with a light layer of sphagnum moss?

I haven't, as the seeds need light to germinate. The sphagnum would block the light.