Seed Treatment (Scarification & Stratification)
- Scarification:
- Lightly sand the seed coat with fine sandpaper or a nail file to help water penetrate.
- Soak seeds in warm water (85–90°F / 29–32°C) for 24–48 hours. This softens the hard seed coat and encourages faster germination.
- Cold Stratification:
- After soaking, place seeds in a moist paper towel, seal in a plastic bag, and store in the refrigerator for 2–4 weeks.
- Check periodically to ensure moisture is maintained.
Planting Instructions
- Sowing Time:
- Best planted in spring or early summer when temperatures are warm.
- Can also be started indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost.
- Soil Preparation:
- Use a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix (loamy or sandy soil with compost).
- Ensure pH is slightly acidic to neutral (6.5–7.5).
- Sowing Depth:
- Plant seeds ¼ inch (6 mm) deep in moist soil.
- Space them 2–3 inches apart in trays or pots.
- Temperature & Light Requirements:
- Maintain soil temperature at 75–85°F (24–29°C) for optimal germination.
- IMPORTANT: Cool soils will significantly delay germination time or inhibit germination.
- Provide bright, indirect sunlight or use a grow light if starting indoors.
- Watering:
- Keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Use a spray bottle to prevent overwatering.
- Germination Time:
- Seeds typically germinate in 6 weeks to 6 months due to their hard coat.
- Transplanting:
- Once seedlings have 2–3 sets of true leaves, transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden.
- Choose a sunny location with support (trellis or fence) for climbing vines.
- Care After Planting:
- Passion fruit vines grow quickly and need regular watering.
- Apply a balanced organic fertilizer every 4–6 weeks for healthy growth.
- Protect young plants from frost.
Additional Tip: If germination is slow, be patient! Passion fruit seeds have a natural dormancy period and may take extra time to sprout.