Lantana Plant Seeds:
Guide to Storing, Sowing and Germination

The lantana plant is a popular choice for gardeners due to its vibrant and colorful flowers. If you’re looking to grow this beautiful plant in your garden, understanding how to store, sow, and germinate lantana seeds is crucial. In this guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to successfully grow lantana from seeds.

Storing Lantana Seeds

Storing lantana seeds properly is essential for maintaining their viability. Here are some steps you can follow to ensure your lantana seeds remain viable for planting:

1. Harvesting: Lantana seeds are typically ready to harvest when the flowers have faded and dried out. Look for small, round berries that have turned dark or black in color. These berries will contain the seeds.

2. Extraction: Gently crush the dried berries or rub them between your fingers to separate the seeds from the pulp. The seeds are usually small and flat, resembling tiny grains.

3. Cleaning: After extracting the seeds, it’s important to remove any remaining pulp or debris. You can do this by rinsing the seeds in water and patting them dry using a clean cloth.

4. Drying: Once cleaned, spread the seeds out on a paper towel or a mesh screen in a well-ventilated area. Allow them to air dry for at least a week before storing.

5. Storage: Store the dried lantana seeds in a cool, dry place. Airtight containers such as small glass jars or ziplock bags work well for this purpose. Make sure to label each container with the date of harvest and the lantana variety.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your lantana seeds remain viable for up to three years.

Sowing Lantana Seeds

Now that you have properly stored lantana seeds, it’s time to sow them and kickstart the germination process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to sowing lantana seeds:

1. Selecting Containers: Choose small pots or seed trays with drainage holes to sow your lantana seeds. Ensure the containers have good drainage to prevent waterlogging.

2. Preparing the Soil: Lantana thrives in well-draining soil. Prepare a potting mix by combining equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and compost. Fill the containers with this mixture, leaving about half an inch of space below the rim.

3. Sowing: Place two to three lantana seeds on top of the soil in each container. Lightly press them down into the soil, ensuring they are in contact with it. Avoid burying the seeds too deep, as they require light for germination.

4. Moistening: Using a spray bottle or a gentle watering can, moisten the soil thoroughly without causing excessive saturation. Keep the soil consistently moist but not overly wet throughout the germination process.

5. Covering: Cover the containers with clear plastic wrap or a humidity dome to create a greenhouse-like environment. This will help retain moisture and create optimal conditions for germination.

6. Location and Temperature: Place the containers in a warm location with indirect sunlight. The ideal temperature for lantana seed germination is between 70-80°F (21-27°C). Avoid exposing the seeds to direct sunlight as it can dry out the soil quickly.

7. Germination Period: Lantana seeds typically take around 14-21 days to germinate. During this period, check the moisture levels regularly and remove the plastic cover once the seedlings start to emerge.

Germinating Lantana Seeds

Once your lantana seeds have germinated and the seedlings have emerged, it’s important to provide them with proper care to ensure healthy growth. Here are some tips for germinating lantana seeds:

1. Thinning: If more than one seedling emerges from a single container, carefully thin them out, leaving only the strongest and healthiest seedling. This will give the remaining plant ample space to grow and develop.

2. Lighting: Place the seedlings in a location with bright, indirect sunlight. Lantana plants require at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to thrive. If you are growing them indoors, consider using fluorescent or LED grow lights to supplement natural light.

3. Watering: Water the seedlings regularly, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s crucial to strike a balance.

4. Transplanting: Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves and are around 2-3 inches tall, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into your garden bed. Ensure that all risk of frost has passed before transplanting them outdoors.

5. Maintenance: As the lantana plants grow, pinch back the tips of the stems to encourage bushier growth. This will result in a more compact and attractive plant.

With these guidelines, you can successfully store, sow, and germinate lantana seeds, bringing these stunning flowers to life in your own garden. Enjoy the vibrant colors and delightful fragrance that these beautiful plants have to offer!