Praying Hands Plant Seeds:
Guide to Storing, Sowing and Germination

Introduction

The praying hands plant (Maranta leuconeura) is a popular choice among houseplant enthusiasts due to its unique and beautiful foliage. Native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil, this plant gets its name from its distinctive leaf shape that resembles hands folded in prayer. If you’re looking to grow your own praying hands plant from seeds, this article will guide you through the process of storing, sowing, and germinating these seeds successfully.

Storing Praying Hands Plant Seeds

Before you can start sowing praying hands plant seeds, it’s important to ensure you have fresh, viable seeds. Typically, the best time to collect seeds from your existing plants is when the flowers have faded and small green berries have formed. These berries will eventually turn black when fully ripe.

Once the berries are black, carefully remove them from the plant and extract the small seeds from inside. These seeds are tiny and black, resembling grains of sand. It’s crucial to store them properly to maintain their viability.

Place the seeds in a dry paper towel or envelope and store them in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. The ideal temperature for storing praying hands plant seeds is around 50°F (10°C). Avoid exposing them to high humidity or extreme temperature fluctuations as this can damage their viability.

Sowing Praying Hands Plant Seeds

When you’re ready to sow the praying hands plant seeds, gather all the necessary supplies. You’ll need a seed tray or small pots, a well-draining potting mix, a spray bottle for watering, and clear plastic covers or plastic wrap to create a mini greenhouse effect.

Fill the seed tray or pots with the potting mix, ensuring it’s slightly moist but not overly wet. Praying hands plant seeds require a warm and humid environment to germinate successfully. Place the seeds on top of the potting mix and gently press them into the surface, ensuring they are in contact with the soil.

Cover the seed tray or pots with clear plastic covers or plastic wrap to create a mini greenhouse effect. This will help retain moisture and create a humid environment ideal for germination. Place the tray or pots in a warm and bright spot, but away from direct sunlight.

Germinating Praying Hands Plant Seeds

Praying hands plant seeds usually take around 2-3 weeks to germinate, but sometimes it can take longer. During this period, it’s essential to keep the potting mix consistently moist but not waterlogged. Using a spray bottle is an excellent way to water without disturbing the seeds.

Check on the seeds regularly to ensure they haven’t dried out or become moldy. If you notice any signs of mold or fungal growth, remove the affected seeds immediately to prevent further contamination.

Once the seeds have germinated, you’ll start to see tiny green shoots emerging from the soil surface. At this stage, remove the plastic covers or wrap to allow for air circulation and prevent excessive moisture buildup.

Caring for Praying Hands Plant Seedlings

As your praying hands plant seedlings continue to grow, it’s essential to provide them with proper care to ensure their healthy development. Here are some key tips:

1. Light: Praying hands plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Place your seedlings near a window with filtered light or use artificial grow lights if natural light is limited.

2. Temperature: Maintain a warm temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C) for optimal growth. Avoid exposing them to cold drafts or sudden temperature fluctuations.

3. Watering: Water your seedlings when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged soil.

4. Humidity: Praying hands plants prefer higher humidity levels. Consider using a humidifier or placing a tray with water near the plants to increase humidity.

5. Fertilization: Once your seedlings have established a few sets of true leaves, you can start fertilizing them with a balanced houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply the fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.

6. Potting up: As your seedlings grow, you may need to repot them into larger containers to accommodate their increasing size. Choose a well-draining potting mix and ensure the new pot has sufficient drainage holes.

Conclusion

Growing praying hands plants from seeds can be a rewarding and satisfying experience for any plant lover. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to store, sow, and germinate praying hands plant seeds successfully. Remember to provide proper care for your seedlings, ensuring they receive adequate light, temperature, water, humidity, and nutrients. With patience and care, you’ll soon enjoy the beauty of these unique plants in your home or garden.