How to Germinate Pittosporum

Pittosporum is a garden shrub with over 200 varieties mostly native to Asia and Australasia. It is generally a hardy plant that that can grow up to 25 feet high and is particularly well-suited for use as hedging because of its dense foliage. Germinating pittosporum seeds can take up to 60 days, and so requires a little extra patience. Germination is best done in the cool months so the seedlings can begin to mature as the spring warmth breaks through. However, some specific tips and tricks will maximize the chances of successful germination.

Things You'll Need

• Pittosporum seeds
• Plastic bag
• Plant pot and compost

Instructions

1. Take seeds from the packet and check the packaging to determine if the seeds have already been treated, or stratified, to improve the chances of germination. Stratification is a process that helps to break down the tough outer wall of the seed. If the seeds have been stratified already, you can omit Step 2 and proceed to Step 3.

2. Place the seed in a plastic bag with a little compost. Place the bag in a refrigerator for about eight weeks.

3. Place the seeds in a bag, expel the air and seal it. Place the bag in a bowl of boiling water for a few seconds.

4. Fill a pot with potting compost and plant the seeds at a depth of 1/16 inch. Leave the pot in a light place, but out of direct sunlight, at a temperature of around 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep the soil moist but avoid over-watering. Seedlings should begin to sprout between 30 and 60 days after planting.

Tips & Warnings

• Once established, repot your seedlings into larger pots to allow them to mature before planting out in the desired location.

References

• The Santa Barbara Independent: Well-Behaved Pittosporum Makes for an Excellent Hedge
• New Zealand Government, Department of Conservation: Pittosporum Patulum Recovery Plan 1999 - 2009
• Royal Horticultural Society: RHS Plant Assessments: Pittosporum Tenuifolium Hybrids & Cultivars' July 2006
• Winsford Walled Garden: Pittosporum
• Backyard Gardener: Seed Germination Database