Ric Rac Plant Seeds:
Guide to Storing, Sowing and Germination

Ric Rac plants, also known as Zigzag cactus or Fishbone cactus, are unique succulents that are native to the rainforests of Brazil. These plants are highly sought after for their distinctive wavy foliage and easy care requirements. If you are a plant enthusiast looking to grow your own Ric Rac plants from seeds, this guide will provide you with all the information you need on storing, sowing, and germinating these fascinating seeds.

Storing Ric Rac Plant Seeds

Storing Ric Rac plant seeds properly is crucial to ensure their viability for successful germination. Here are some steps to follow when storing Ric Rac plant seeds:

1. Harvesting: Ric Rac plant seeds are typically produced after the plant flowers. Once the flowers have faded and dried up, they will form small fruit-like structures called seed pods. Allow the seed pods to mature fully on the plant before harvesting them.

2. Seed Extraction: Once the seed pods have turned brown and become dry, carefully remove them from the plant. Open the seed pods and collect the small black seeds inside. Be gentle while handling the seeds to avoid any damage.

3. Drying: After extracting the seeds, spread them out on a clean paper towel or a piece of newspaper in a well-ventilated area. Allow the seeds to air dry for about a week or until they are completely dry. Make sure to keep them away from direct sunlight and moisture during this process.

4. Storage Container: Once dry, transfer the Ric Rac plant seeds into an airtight container such as a small glass jar or a plastic zip-lock bag. It is important to choose a container that can be sealed tightly to prevent any moisture from entering and causing mold or rot.

5. Labeling: To avoid confusion later on, label the container with the date of harvest and the plant’s name. This will help you keep track of the seed’s age and ensure you use the freshest seeds for sowing.

6. Storage Conditions: Store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Ideally, the temperature should be between 40-50°F (4-10°C) with low humidity. A refrigerator or a cool basement can serve as suitable storage locations.

By following these steps, you can store Ric Rac plant seeds for up to a year without losing their viability.

Sowing Ric Rac Plant Seeds

Sowing Ric Rac plant seeds is a relatively simple process, but it does require some care and attention to ensure successful germination. Here’s how you can sow your Ric Rac plant seeds:

1. Seed Tray or Pots: Choose a seed tray or small pots with drainage holes to sow the Ric Rac plant seeds. Fill them with a well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for succulents or cacti. Make sure the soil is slightly moist before sowing the seeds.

2. Sowing Depth: Ric Rac plant seeds are tiny, so they should be sown on the surface of the soil rather than buried deep. Gently press the seeds onto the soil surface, ensuring they have good contact with the soil.

3. Watering: After sowing, mist the soil surface with water to settle the seeds in place. Avoid overwatering as excessive moisture can lead to rotting. Maintain a slightly moist environment by misting whenever the soil surface feels dry.

4. Covering: To create a humid environment, cover the seed tray or pots with a clear plastic lid or a plastic wrap. This will help retain moisture and promote germination. Place them in a warm area with indirect sunlight.

5. Germination Time: Ric Rac plant seeds usually germinate within two to four weeks if provided with proper conditions. However, it can sometimes take longer, so be patient. Check the trays or pots regularly for any signs of germination.

6. Removing the Cover: Once the seeds have germinated and tiny seedlings are visible, remove the plastic cover gradually over a few days to acclimate the seedlings to lower humidity levels. Increase the exposure to indirect sunlight gradually as well.

Germination Tips and Care

To ensure the successful growth of your Ric Rac plant seedlings, here are some additional tips and care guidelines to follow:

• Light Requirements: Ric Rac plants prefer bright, indirect light. Place your seedlings in a location with filtered sunlight or provide them with artificial grow lights if necessary.

• Watering: Water your Ric Rac plant seedlings sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is crucial to maintain a well-draining soil and avoid standing water.

• Temperature and Humidity: Ric Rac plants thrive in warm temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C) with moderate humidity levels. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or drafts.

• Transplanting: Once your Ric Rac plant seedlings have grown several sets of true leaves and are sturdy enough, they can be transplanted into individual pots with a well-draining succulent potting mix.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the beauty of your own Ric Rac plants grown from seeds. Remember that growing from seeds requires patience and care, but the reward of seeing your seeds sprout into vibrant plants is truly satisfying. Happy gardening!