Sensitive Plant seeds

Mimosa Pudica

 

14" - 16" apart

Dark green with purple flowers

1/8"

Full sun / part shade

These are fun novelty plants for everyone of all ages to grow. In addition to being a fun growing project, the mimosa pudica also has medicinal uses. This can be grown as an indoor house plant with access to adequate sunlight and constant warm temperatures. 

No

90-120 days

Perennial

 

Yes

Yes

Animated plant, Mimosa Pudica, Sleepy Plant, Touch-Me-Not, Nervous plant, Zombie Plant

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to germinate and grow Sensitive Plant (Mimosa pudica) seeds:

The Sensitive Plant is a fascinating and relatively easy-to-grow plant, known for its rapid leaf-folding response to touch.

I. Germinating Sensitive Plant Seeds

Materials You'll Need:

• Sensitive Plant seeds
• Small bowl or container
• Warm water (not hot)
• Seed starting mix (well-draining)
• Seed starting trays or small pots (with drainage holes)
• Clear plastic dome or plastic wrap (optional, for humidity)
• Spray bottle

Step-by-Step Germination Process:

• Scarification (Optional but Recommended): Sensitive Plant seeds have a hard outer coat that can inhibit germination. While soaking helps, you can also gently nick or scratch the seed coat with a nail file or fine-grit sandpaper. Be very careful not to damage the inner embryo. This isn't strictly necessary but can improve germination rates and speed.

• Soaking the Seeds (Crucial Step):

  • Place your Sensitive Plant seeds in a small bowl or container.
  • Add warm water (around room temperature or slightly warmer, but not hot enough to scald you).
  • Soak the seeds for 24-48 hours. You'll notice the seeds plump up as they absorb water. This process softens the seed coat and signals to the embryo that it's time to sprout. Replace the water after 24 hours if soaking for longer.

• Prepare Your Growing Medium:

  • Fill your seed starting trays or small pots with a good quality, well-draining seed starting mix. A mix specifically designed for germination will provide the right balance of aeration and moisture retention.
  • Lightly moisten the seed starting mix. It should be damp, not waterlogged.

• Sowing the Seeds:

  • After soaking, carefully remove the seeds from the water.
  • Place one or two seeds per pot or cell, pressing them gently into the surface of the soil.
  • Do not bury the seeds deeply. Sensitive Plant seeds need light to germinate. Cover them with a very thin layer (about 1/8 inch or 3mm) of seed starting mix or fine vermiculite. You should still be able to vaguely see the seeds if you look closely.

• Provide Optimal Conditions for Germination:

  • Light: Place your seed trays in a warm, brightly lit location. A sunny windowsill is often sufficient, but supplemental grow lights can be beneficial, especially if natural light is limited.
  • Temperature: Ideal germination temperature for Sensitive Plant seeds is between 70-85°F (21-29°C).
  • Humidity: To maintain consistent moisture and humidity, you can cover your seed trays with a clear plastic dome or plastic wrap. This acts like a mini-greenhouse. If using a dome or wrap, be sure to lift it daily for a few minutes to allow for air circulation and prevent mold growth.
  • Moisture: Keep the seed starting mix consistently moist, but not soggy. Use a spray bottle to mist the surface of the soil as needed. Overwatering can lead to damping-off disease.

• Patience is Key:

  • Germination typically occurs within 1-3 weeks, though some seeds may take longer. You'll see tiny green sprouts emerging from the soil.

II. Growing Sensitive Plants

Materials You'll Need (as plants grow):

• Larger pots (for transplanting)
• Well-draining potting mix
• Fertilizer (balanced, diluted)
• Watering can
• Pruning shears (optional)

Step-by-Step Growing Process:

• Thinning (if necessary):

  • Once your seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves (not the initial round or oval cotyledons), if you have multiple seedlings in one pot, thin them to the strongest one. You can snip the weaker seedlings at the soil line to avoid disturbing the roots of the chosen plant.

• Transplanting:

  • When your seedlings are about 2-4 inches tall and have developed a good root system, they are ready for transplanting into larger individual pots (4-6 inch pots are a good starting size).
  • Gently remove the seedling from its original container, trying to keep the root ball intact.
  • Place the seedling in the new pot, fill with fresh potting mix, and water thoroughly.

• Light and Location:

  • Sensitive Plants thrive in bright, indirect light. A south or west-facing window is ideal. They can tolerate some direct morning sun, but too much intense afternoon sun can scorch their leaves.
  • If growing outdoors (in warmer climates), choose a location with dappled shade or morning sun.

• Watering:

  • Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
  • Reduce watering slightly during the dormant winter months if the plant experiences a period of less growth.

• Humidity:

  • Sensitive Plants appreciate high humidity. You can increase humidity by misting the foliage regularly with a spray bottle, placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water, or using a humidifier.

• Temperature:

  • Maintain a consistent room temperature between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Protect them from cold drafts, as they are sensitive to low temperatures.

• Fertilizing:

  • During the active growing season (spring and summer), feed your Sensitive Plant every 2-4 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
  • Reduce or stop fertilizing during the fall and winter months.

• Pruning:

  • You can prune your Sensitive Plant to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Pinch back leggy stems to promote branching.

• Pests and Diseases:

  • Sensitive Plants are generally quite resilient, but keep an eye out for common houseplant pests like spider mites or mealybugs. Treat promptly with insecticidal soap if necessary. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

• Enjoy the Magic!

  • Once your Sensitive Plant is established, you can enjoy its unique response to touch. Gently touch a leaf, and watch as it folds inward! Be mindful not to constantly touch the plant, as this can stress it out.