Pink Nerve Plant Seeds:
Guide to Storing, Sowing and Germination

Pink Nerve Plants, also known as Fittonia albivenis, are beautiful and vibrant houseplants that are popular for their unique foliage. With their striking pink veins on lush green leaves, they add a touch of color and interest to any indoor space. If you are lucky enough to have a Pink Nerve Plant in your collection, you may be interested in propagating it by collecting and sowing its seeds. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to store, sow, and germinate Pink Nerve Plant seeds successfully.

Storing Pink Nerve Plant Seeds

When it comes to storing Pink Nerve Plant seeds, it is essential to ensure they are collected and stored properly to maintain their viability. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Seed Collection: Pink Nerve Plants produce small flowers that eventually develop into seed pods. Wait until the seed pods turn brown and start to split open naturally before collecting the seeds. This ensures that the seeds are mature and ready for propagation.

2. Seed Extraction: Gently remove the seed pods from the plant and open them carefully to reveal the tiny seeds inside. Take care not to damage the seeds during this process.

3. Seed Cleaning: Pink Nerve Plant seeds can be quite small and delicate, making them prone to debris and dirt. To clean the seeds, place them in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse them under running water. Gently rub the seeds with your fingers to remove any remaining debris.

4. Drying: After cleaning, place the seeds on a paper towel or a dry surface in a well-ventilated area. Allow them to air dry completely for a few days. Make sure they are fully dry before proceeding to the next step.

5. Storage Containers: Once the seeds are dry, transfer them to airtight containers such as small glass jars or resealable plastic bags. It is crucial to protect the seeds from moisture and humidity to maintain their viability.

6. Labeling: Don’t forget to label the storage containers with the date of collection and the plant variety. This will help you keep track of the seeds and ensure you use them within their recommended shelf life.

7. Storage Conditions: Store the containers in a cool, dark, and dry place. A refrigerator or a cool basement is ideal for long-term seed storage. The temperature should be around 40°F (4°C) with low humidity levels.

By following these steps, you can store Pink Nerve Plant seeds for up to one year while maintaining their viability.

Sowing Pink Nerve Plant Seeds

Once you are ready to sow your Pink Nerve Plant seeds, it’s time to prepare the planting medium and create an optimal environment for germination:

1. Planting Medium: Pink Nerve Plant seeds require a well-draining and porous potting mix. You can either purchase a commercial seed-starting mix or prepare your own by combining equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. Avoid using heavy soils that retain too much moisture as they can lead to root rot.

2. Seed Tray or Pots: Fill a seed tray or small pots with the prepared planting medium, leaving about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) of space at the top for watering.

3. Sowing the Seeds: Sprinkle the Pink Nerve Plant seeds evenly over the surface of the planting medium. Since the seeds are tiny, it’s best to mix them with some fine sand or vermiculite to help distribute them more evenly.

4. Covering the Seeds: Lightly press the seeds into the planting medium using your fingertips or a small piece of cardboard. Avoid burying the seeds too deeply as they require light for germination. A thin layer of vermiculite or fine sand can be sprinkled on top to help retain moisture.

5. Watering: Using a misting spray bottle, water the planting medium gently until it is evenly moist. Avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to fungal diseases. Place the seed tray or pots in a shallow tray filled with water to allow for bottom watering.

6. Environment: Pink Nerve Plant seeds require warm and humid conditions for successful germination. Cover the seed tray or pots with a plastic dome or clear plastic wrap to create a mini-greenhouse effect. Place them in a warm location with indirect sunlight.

7. Germination Time: Pink Nerve Plant seeds usually germinate within 2-4 weeks. During this time, ensure that the planting medium remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mist the surface lightly whenever it appears dry.

Germination and Care

Once your Pink Nerve Plant seeds have germinated, it’s time to provide them with proper care to ensure their healthy growth:

1. Light Requirements: Pink Nerve Plants thrive in bright but indirect light conditions. Place them in a location where they receive filtered sunlight or provide artificial grow lights if necessary.

2. Temperature and Humidity: Maintain a temperature range of 70-80°F (21-27°C) during the day and slightly cooler temperatures at night. Additionally, keeping the humidity level around 50-60% will benefit the young plants.

3. Transplanting: When the seedlings have developed their second set of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots filled with regular potting soil. Handle them carefully to avoid damaging the delicate roots.

4. Watering and Fertilizing: Water your Pink Nerve Plants regularly, allowing the top inch of the soil to dry out between waterings. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength every two weeks during the growing season.

5. Pruning: To encourage bushy growth, pinch back the growing tips of your Pink Nerve Plants regularly. This will promote lateral branching and create a fuller appearance.

By following these guidelines, you can successfully store, sow, and germinate Pink Nerve Plant seeds, allowing you to expand your collection and enjoy the beauty of these stunning houseplants. Happy gardening!