If you’re looking for a unique plant variety to add to your garden, Vicks plant might be just what you need. The plant is known for its peculiar aroma that resembles the smell of Vicks VapoRub. Also called Plectranthus tomentosa, this perennial herb can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, producing pretty purple flowers in late summer.
Vicks plant is relatively easy to grow from seeds, and in this guide, we’ll show you how to store, sow and germinate them successfully.
Before you start sowing your Vicks plant seeds, it’s essential to understand how to store them correctly. The good news is that Vicks plant seeds are relatively easy to store as they have a long shelf life. Here are the steps to follow:
Harvest the seeds: Wait until the seed pods on the Vicks plant turn brown and dry before harvesting them. Once they’re dry, gently pull the pods apart and collect the seeds.
Clean the seeds: Remove any debris from the seeds by rubbing them gently with a dry cloth.
Dry the seeds: Spread the clean seeds on a paper towel or a dry plate and let them air-dry for a few days. Make sure they’re completely dry before storing them.
Store the seeds: Place the dried seeds in an airtight container and store them in a cool, dark place. A refrigerator or freezer works best for long-term storage.
Once you’ve stored your Vicks plant seeds correctly, it’s time to sow them. Here’s how to do it:
Choose a pot: Use a small pot with drainage holes at the bottom to sow your Vicks plant seeds. Fill it with well-draining soil, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
Sow the seeds: Place the Vicks plant seeds on top of the soil and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Water gently to moisten the soil.
Cover the pot: Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or a plastic wrap to create a greenhouse effect. This will help retain moisture and heat, which is essential for germination.
Wait for germination: Place the pot in a warm spot with indirect sunlight and wait for germination. Vicks plant seeds typically germinate in 7-10 days.
Remove the cover: Once the seeds have sprouted, remove the cover and place the pot in a sunny spot with good air circulation.
Germinating Vicks plant seeds requires some patience and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you get it right:
Temperature: Vicks plant seeds need a warm temperature of around 70°F to germinate successfully. You can achieve this by placing them in a warm spot indoors or using a heat mat.
Moisture: Vicks plant seeds require consistent moisture to germinate. Make sure you water them regularly, but don’t overwater as this can cause rotting.
Light: Vicks plant seeds require indirect sunlight to germinate, so avoid placing them in direct sunlight.
Soil: Use well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter to sow your Vicks plant seeds. This will help prevent waterlogging and provide adequate nutrients for growth.
Fertilizer: Avoid fertilizing your Vicks plant seeds until they have developed their first true leaves. Then you can start using a balanced fertilizer once a month.
A: Water your Vicks plant seeds regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering as this can cause the seeds to rot.
A: Yes, you can sow Vicks plant seeds directly in the ground if the soil is well-draining and warm enough. However, starting them indoors is recommended for better germination rates.
A: Vicks plant seeds typically germinate in 7-10 days, but it can take up to 14 days in some cases.
A: Yes, you can propagate Vicks plant from stem cuttings. Take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy plant and place it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and warm until roots develop.