Hardy Cycad (Hardy to -8C when mature)
Height: to 4m, smaller indoors
Position: Full sun in well drained soil
Packet of 5 seeds
GROWING GUIDE
Sow at any time of year.
Pre-sowing Treatment: Soak the seeds until the seed coat splits (this can take several weeks or even months) changing the water every few days preferably in a heated propagator, or on a sunny windowsill or above a radiator.
Sowing Instructions: When the seed coat splits, place in small pots of moist seed compost mixed 50:50 with vermiculite. The seeds should be half buried lengthwise with the split just visible at soil level. Place in a propagator or cover with a polythene bag and place in any other warm place (eg. on a windowsill above a radiator). Palm seeds often make a large root before a shoot so carefully check seeds regularly. When a root appears, pot up individually into 9-11cm pots. Germination can be erratic but should take place in 1 – 3 months.
Growing Instructions: Grow the seedlings on, re-potting as necessary and protect from frost for the first couple of winters. Harden off completely before planting out in a sunny, sheltered position away from strong winds which can tear the leaves. Protect with bubble wrap and/or a fleece jacket for the first few years and in very cold temperatures.