Love Rose SEEDS-Cavendishia adenophora- TROPICAL SHRUB! Caribbeangardenseed

 The small town of El Queremal in western Colombia is named after this stunningly beautiful pink and intoxicatingly fragrant flower that has been cherished there as a charm for love and enchantment since pre-colonial times. It is produced by a scrambling shrub or small tree that grows only here in the rainforests of western Colombia between 500 to 2100 m. The blueberry-like fruits are edible and sweet.

Getting started — Use small containers or cups that have drainage holes.

 This plant prefers a loose, well-draining soil that is high in organic matter.  A typical mix to germinate them in is 2 parts perlite to 1 part coir fiber or peat, with some slow-release fertilizer mixed in.  An alternate mix is 3 parts potting soil to 2 part perlite.  Do not add lime, since this plant likes slightly acid soil.  Screen the mix of any large chunks.

 Fill the pots with the mix, place 1-2 seeds on top, and cover with a thin layer of long-fiber sphagnum moss (not ground peat moss).  This helps retain moisture around the seeds while allowing light to reach them, which aids germination. Then add water until everything is evenly moist (but not soggy).

 Until the seeds sprout, ensure that the surface soil doesn’t dry out.  A plastic bag or dome may be used to maintain high humidity, but leave it open a crack to allow some fresh air in.  You may need to drip a few drops of water on the surface each day.

 The ideal temperature for germination is about 68 to 77 degrees F (20-25°C).  A little cooler at night is ok.  Avoid letting the seeds get above 80° F (27°C) for prolonged periods.  I recommend placing a minimum/maximum thermometer near the pots, especially if using a heating mat.  Keep them in a bright spot out of direct sunlight.

 The seeds should start germinating in 4 to 6 weeks and continue for a month.  Cooler temperatures may slow germination.