Ficus plants require specific pollinators -- wasps -- to set seed. And not just any wasp either. Each species within the Ficus genus has an associated wasp species. Ficus lyrata, commonly known as fiddle-leaf fig, is native to tropical Africa and, although it flourishes outdoors in Hawaii and Florida, it is more commonly grown indoors, as a houseplant. If you are fortunate enough to get your hands on some lyrata seeds, be patient. They may take up to three months to germinate. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Use a sterile seed-starting mix in which to germinate the Ficus lyrata seed. A mix with a peat-moss base is ideal. Moisten the mix completely and use it to fill a container to within 1/2 inch of the rim.
2. Set the ficus seeds on top of the mix so that they get plenty of light for germination. Spray them with room-temperature water to moisten them.
3. Slip the container into a bag or cover the container with plastic wrap. Ensure the plastic you use allows light to penetrate. Place the container in filtered sunlight, on top of a heat mat set to 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Look for the Ficus lyrata seeds to sprout within two weeks to three months.
Tags: Ficus lyrata, lyrata seeds, three months