How to Grow Asparagus Fern from Seed
Generally, asparagus ferns are grown outdoors. However, it is possible to grow them indoors in a controlled environment and thus effectively keep the tuberous roots under control, something that is hard to manage with asparagus ferns growing outdoors. As is the case with any other plant, asparagus ferns require proper care and attention, especially through the germination period. Amongst other things, you will need to ensure that the soil in which the seeds are planted stays moist for the entire duration of the germination process.
Things Required:
– Seeding tray
– Potting soil
– Spray bottle filled with water
– Asparagus fern seeds
– Sandpaper
Instructions
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1
Take a seeding tray and fill each of its compartments with potting soil, leaving 1/4 inch clear at the top of each compartment. Spray water onto the soil from a spray bottle. Distribute the sprayed water uniformly by stirring the soil.
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2
Place asparagus fern seeds between two pieces of sandpaper. Make the seeds more receptive to germination by scratching them in between the sandpaper pieces for about 5 times. This process is called scarifying.
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3
Make a 1/4-inch hole at the center of the soil in each of the seeding tray compartments with your finger. Place one seed in each of the holes and then cover them with soil.
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4
Place the seeding tray near a window where it can receive abundant natural light but is shaded from direct sunlight. Cover each of its compartments with a clear plastic lid. Be sure to maintain the temperature of the room in which the seeding tray is placed at about 77 degrees Fahrenheit.
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5
Moisten the soil every day in order to promote germination. Make sure that the soil does not become mucky. After you have watered the soil, do not forget to replace the plastic lid.
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6
At any time from one month to fifty days, you will see green plant matter popping through the soil. This is a sign that germination has started. Remove the plastic lid at this point.
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7
Allow enough time for the plants to grow 5 to 6 inches in height and then transplant them from the seeding tray into a plant pot. Make sure that the plants get abundant natural light but are shaded from direct sunlight.
