Can a monkey puzzle tree be started from a fallen cone, and if so how? |
Monkey Puzzle Tree is Araucaria, a native of Brazil. The seeds are ripe when the cone turns from green to brown. The cone will disintegrate about 10 days after it turns brown so place it on a newspaper to catch the seeds. Mature seeds will have two papery wings attached. Seeds should be planted immediately (although they can be stored at 38F for several years). They begin to lose viability rapidly when kept at room temperature so plant or store them as soon as possible after collection. No pre-germination treatment is required. Sow seeds one-half to three-quarters of an inch deep in moistened potting soil. Keep seedbed moist until seedlings emerge - usually 10-50 days when kept at 70F-85F. Provide afternoon shade to seedlings to promote good root development. Best wishes with your seed starting venture! |