How to Plant Climbing Strawberry Tree Seeds

Climbing strawberry trees, also known as Chilean guavas or Ugni molinae, are evergreen shrubs that produce delicious edible fruits. Growing them from seeds is not difficult and can be done indoors or outdoors. Here are some steps to follow in order to successfully plant climbing strawberry tree seeds.

Step 1: Collect the Seeds

The first step is to collect the seeds from ripe fruit. Simply cut open the fruit and gently scrape out the seeds. Rinse the seeds in water to remove any leftover fruit flesh or debris. It's important to use fresh seeds for the best chance of successful germination.

Step 2: Prepare the Soil

Climbing strawberry trees prefer a well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Mix equal parts of sand, peat moss, and perlite together to create a suitable soil mixture. Fill a small pot or seed tray with the soil mixture, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.

Step 3: Plant the Seeds

Plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep into the soil mixture. You can plant multiple seeds in one pot or tray, but make sure to leave enough space between each seedling to avoid competition. Gently water the soil to moisten it, but don't overwater, as too much water can lead to rot.

Step 4: Maintain the Soil Moisture and Temperature

Keep the soil moist by watering it lightly every few days, or when the top layer of soil feels dry. Place the pot or tray in a warm spot with temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C), such as a sunroom or under a grow light. A consistent temperature and humidity level will help the seeds germinate faster and successfully.

Step 5: Transplant the Seedlings

After about 4-6 weeks, the seedlings should emerge from the soil. Once they are big enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots or larger containers with fresh soil. Make sure to keep the soil moist and provide the seedlings with enough light, either from natural sunlight or grow lights. Fertilize the plants every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth.

Step 6: Harden Off and Plant Outdoors

Once the seedlings are strong and healthy, they can be hardened off by gradually exposing them to outside conditions. Do this by placing the pots or containers outside for a few hours each day, gradually increasing the amount of time every day for about a week. Then they can be safely planted outdoors in a sunny spot with moist, slightly acidic soil. Make sure to give the plants enough space to climb and spread.

By following these simple steps, you can enjoy climbing strawberry trees' delicious fruits and enhance the beauty of your garden with their lovely foliage.