Mesembryanthemum crystallinum (ice plant) is a prostrate succulent annual/perennial native to coastal regions of North Africa and Southern Europe, covered with distinctive glistening bladder cells. Seeds require light and warm temperatures to germinate and show variable germination patterns.
Before sowing
Dry heat treatment (103°C for 17 hours) breaks physiological dormancy. Seeds show variable germination patterns - seeds at top of capsule germinate immediately while seeds at base may remain dormant for longer than 4 weeks.
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Seeds are tiny and difficult to sow evenly - sprinkle on soil surface and press in lightly. Keep soil moist but never waterlogged to prevent damping off. Seedlings prone to dampening off - ensure excellent ventilation and sunny position. Germination is often sporadic with some seeds germinating quickly while others may take 4-6 weeks. Seeds should be surface sown with minimal covering (no more than 1mm). Keep tray at 18-24°C in bright location without direct sunlight.
Sources: Plants For A Future (PFAF), Happy Green Shop, PlotMyGarden, The Seed Vine, SANBI PlantZAfrica, ScienceDirect, MDPI, GardenersHQ, Magic Garden Seeds
