AboutTom Alonzo Expertise I have been growing plants from seeds for at least 20 years. I have grown literally hundreds of different kinds of vegetables, trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials, tropicals, some cacti, water plants, iris, rose, lilies, cannas, etc. I enjoy starting from seed.
Experience I've been growing my own seeds for 20 years with indoor propagation equipment I built myself. I am also an Allexperts volunteer on the perennial forum. I have completed the Master Gardener course through the Kansas State University Extension. I have experience with a wide variety of seeds and I have also read through Norm Deno's books on seed germination.
Question I have some seed pods from a monkey ear tree and need to know what to do to plant the seeds. Am not sure about getting the seeds from the pods or the best way to plant the seeds.
Answer Hi Merry,
Thanx for your question. The monkey ear tree (Enteroloblum cyclocarpum) is related to the mimosa, it is also leguminous (from the pea family). Seeds need to be nicked and then soaked in nearly boiling water for 30 seconds and then soaked in warm water for 24 hours. Plant the seed 1/2 inch deep in potting soil. Germination is almost 100% at 75-80 F. Keep pot warm and moist but not soggy. Prick out seedlings when large enough to handle. Plant in separate pots. Put pots in the shade to acclimate to the outdoors for ten days and then plant in full sun. This tree is considered invasive by some in Florida. Here's a link from the University of Florida.
