Purple Shield Plant Seeds:
Guide to Storing, Sowing and Germination

The purple shield plant, also known as the Brazilian red cloak, is a stunning tropical plant that adds a vibrant pop of color to any garden or indoor space. With its large, heart-shaped leaves in shades of deep purple and green, it’s no wonder why this plant is highly sought after by gardening enthusiasts.

If you’re lucky enough to have a purple shield plant in your collection, you may be wondering how to propagate it from seeds. In this guide, we will take you through the process of storing, sowing, and germinating purple shield plant seeds to ensure successful propagation.

Storing Purple Shield Plant Seeds

Before we dive into the process of sowing and germination, it’s important to understand how to properly store purple shield plant seeds. Here are a few key tips:

Harvesting Seeds

To obtain purple shield plant seeds, allow the plant to flower and produce seed pods. The pods will turn brown and dry out when they are ready for harvesting. Carefully remove the pods from the plant and gently split them open to reveal the small black seeds inside.

Drying Seeds

Once the seeds are harvested, it’s crucial to dry them thoroughly before storing. Spread the seeds out on a paper towel or a clean surface and let them air dry for about a week. Make sure they are completely dry before moving on to the next step.

Storage Containers

Choose an airtight container for storing the dried seeds. Small glass jars with tight-fitting lids work well for this purpose. Make sure the container is clean and dry before adding the seeds.

Ideal Storage Conditions

Purple shield plant seeds should be stored in a cool, dark place with low humidity. A pantry or basement storage area is usually suitable. It’s important to avoid exposing the seeds to direct sunlight or excessive moisture, as this can reduce their viability.

Sowing Purple Shield Plant Seeds

Now that you have properly stored purple shield plant seeds, it’s time to move on to the sowing process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Seed Trays or Pots

Choose a seed tray or small pots with drainage holes for sowing the purple shield plant seeds. Fill the containers with a well-draining potting mix, preferably one with a high percentage of organic matter.

Sowing Depth

Purple shield plant seeds are small, so they should be sown close to the soil surface. Gently press the seeds into the potting mix, but do not bury them too deep. A depth of about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) is sufficient.

Watering

After sowing the seeds, water the potting mix thoroughly but gently. Use a fine mist sprayer or a watering can with a rose attachment to avoid dislodging the seeds. Ensure that the potting mix remains moist but not overly saturated during the germination period.

Temperature and Light

Purple shield plant seeds require warm temperatures and indirect light for germination. Place the seed trays or pots in a warm location, such as near a window with filtered sunlight or on a heat mat set to around 70°F (21°C). Avoid direct sunlight, as it can be too intense for the delicate seedlings.

Germination of Purple Shield Plant Seeds

Germinating purple shield plant seeds can take anywhere from 1 to 3 weeks, depending on various factors such as temperature and seed viability. Here’s what you need to know about the germination process:

Germination Period

Check the seed trays or pots regularly for signs of germination. Once the seeds start sprouting, you will see small green shoots emerging from the soil surface. Be patient and allow the seedlings to develop before transplanting them.

Transplanting Seedlings

When the purple shield plant seedlings have grown a few inches tall and developed a few leaves, they are ready to be transplanted into individual pots or a larger container. Handle the seedlings carefully to avoid damaging the delicate roots.

Growing Conditions

Provide the transplanted seedlings with bright, indirect light and maintain a warm temperature of around 70-75°F (21-24°C). Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.

Growth and Maintenance

As the purple shield plant grows, it will benefit from regular watering, occasional misting to increase humidity, and monthly fertilization with a balanced houseplant fertilizer. Prune any leggy or damaged growth to encourage bushier growth.

With proper care and attention, your purple shield plant will thrive and reward you with its stunning foliage. Remember to keep an eye out for any signs of pests or diseases and address them promptly to ensure the plant’s health.

In conclusion, propagating purple shield plants from seeds is a rewarding process that allows you to expand your collection and share the beauty of this tropical plant with others. By following these guidelines for storing, sowing, and germinating purple shield plant seeds, you’ll be well on your way to successfully propagating this captivating plant. Happy gardening!