Growing Trichocereus from seed
Growing trichocereus (for example, San Pedro, Bolivian torch, Peruvian torch, and other species) from seed can be a rewarding process and an easy way to get a bunch of plants in one go.
Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
- Seed acquisition: Obtain fresh Trichocereus seeds from a reputable source. You can purchase them online or acquire them from a mature plant that has produced fruit. Misplant is one of the original trichocereus breeders and seed sellers online. The process is somewhat old school, but his seeds are fresh and have high germination rates. (Remember, Trichocereus are self-sterile, so all seeds will be crosses from original landrace cuttings!)
- Preparing the soil: Trichocereus prefers very well-draining soil. Use a cactus or succulent mix or create your own by combining potting soil with perlite or coarse sand. Optionally, you can sterilize the soil by microwaving it to help prevent fungal or bacterial issues.
- Germination container: Select a shallow tray or pot. Clean and disinfect the container with isopropyl alcohol to minimize the risk of pathogens. Some of the most common containers used are Tupperware (or similar) plastic containers with clear lids, or the thin clear plastic containers commonly used for take-out food (see takeaway tek).
- Sowing the seeds: Fill the container with the prepared soil mix. Sprinkle the Trichocereus seeds evenly over the surface, keeping them slightly spaced apart. Lightly press the seeds into the soil but do not bury them deeply, as they require light for germination.
- Moisture and cover: Moisten the soil gently using a spray bottle or by bottom watering. If you used a pot, place a clear plastic cover or a plastic wrap around the container to create a mini greenhouse effect, maintaining high humidity. The soil should be moist, but not wet, throughout the germination process.
- Ideal conditions: Trichocereus seeds prefer warm temperatures for germination. Place the container in a warm location with temperatures around 70-80°F (21-27°C). Provide indirect sunlight or use fluorescent grow lights to provide adequate light without overheating the seeds.
- Germination and care: Germination time can vary, but it typically takes 1-4 weeks. Check the soil regularly and mist it to maintain moisture levels. Ensure the soil doesn't dry out completely but avoid overwatering, as it can lead to rot. A good test is to pick up and squeeze the soil – it should feel moist, but if water drips out, it's probably too wet. Once the seeds start sprouting, gradually decrease humidity by either poking holes in the lid/cover or cracking it open.
- Transplanting: Once the seedlings have grown to about 1-2 inches high, usually after a few months, they can be transplanted into individual pots with well-draining soil. Handle the seedlings carefully, taking care not to damage the delicate roots. A trick to remove them is to use a toothpick or similar implement to pry them up from a few millimeters away, helping to minimally disturb the roots and the soil around them.
- Potted seedling growth and maintenance: Place the potted seedlings in a sunny location with indirect sunlight or use artificial grow lights. Water the plants when the soil is dry, allowing excess water to drain away. As they grow, you may need to repot them into larger containers periodically.
- Hardening off and outdoor planting: If you plan to eventually move your Trichocereus plants outdoors, gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions by exposing them to increasing amounts of sunlight and lower temperatures over a period of a few weeks. Once hardened off, they can be planted in a sunny location in well-draining soil.