1. Seed viability
The plant seeds have a long life and are packed in sealed, moisture resistant packs
to maximise their life. We regularly grow the seeds to ensure that batches have
a high germination rate at all times. Once exposed to the air then the seeds can
deteriorate and if the seed pack has been damaged in any way then this can cause
the germination rate to drop.
2. Sowing the seeds
Many plant seeds are very tiny and will not germinate and grow successfully if
planted too deep. The seeds should be sprinkled onto the soil surface and then
barely covered with a very thin (1-2mm) of soil. If they are to be germinated inside
the propagator then you do not even need to cover them, simply press into the soil
surface with dry hands before watering.
3. Watering
This is possibly the most critical part of the seed care during germination, and
the normal reason for germination failure. The soil that the seeds are grown in
is a loam based soil. This is lower in nutrients than potting composts and so
avoids rapid growth of the weeds, which would lead to plants that are very soft
and tender (rather than nice tough weeds you are trying to produce), with a low
nutrient content.
The down side of this soil however is that it waterlogs more easily and once this
happens then the seeds will die before germinating. Once the seeds are sown then
the soil only needs to be watered very lightly. This wets the surface layer of the
soil, which is where the seeds are positioned, and gives them plenty of moisture to
grow. If the soil surface looks dry then it can be watered again but in a propagator
the soil will usually remain moist until the seeds have germinated. The best way to
water the soil is with a fine rose on a watering can, or with a sprayer. If water starts
to drip out of the holes in the bottom of the seed tray then the soil is close to being
waterlogged and no more water should be added.
Once the plants start to grow then the watering is best done by pouring a little water
into the propagator tray so that it is drawn up into the soil. If there is water in the
propagator tray all the time then the soil will get too wet, so it is best to water it little
and often, if the soil is damp then don’t water! Remember, while the propagator lid
is in place then little water is lost from inside the propagator. Water vapour given off
by the plants condenses on the inside of the lid and drips back into the tray, so the
level of watering is much lower than you might expect.
4. Light
The plants need as much light as possible, without being in direct sunlight for
long periods which can cause overheating. A sunny windowsill, conservatory or
greenhouse will all work well, but if grown on a windowsill then the tray should be
turned daily to ensure even growth.
5. Warmth
The seeds will grow in a wide range of temperatures. From 10
O
C right up to 25
O
C,
lower temperatures will cause much slower germination, while high temperatures
increase the risk of fungal disease.
6. Other factors
It is a good idea to open the propagator every day for a few seconds to allow
some fresh air in. This helps stop fungal diseases which can cause seedlings to
“damp off” (this is when the stems rot and the seedling falls over and dies). Fungal
problems with the seedlings pose no risk to a tortoise or other reptile, but means
that fewer plants are produced.
Hopefully these growing hints will help ensure a successful crop. If you have any
concerns or need any further assistance the please contact the Pro Rep customer
services team at [email protected].
BEARDIE FEED
GROWING KIT
BEARDIE FEED GROWING KIT
Instructions
Open the bag containing the soil and
carefully pour a quarter of the bag into
one of the seed trays provided.
Place the complete propagator in a
warm, well lit place such as a south
facing window, conservatory or (in
warm weather) a bright, sheltered
position outside. Once the plants start
to grow, turn the tray each day to
ensure even growth.
Water as needed to keep the soil damp
but do not wet. Once the seedlings fill
the propagator then remove the lid and
continue to water as needed. The plants
can be used at any time and will reach a
maximum of about 15-20cm tall before
running out of nutrients in the soil.
To use simply harvest the required amount of edible plants and place them in your
Bearded Dragon’s enclosure in a shallow food bowl or alternatively mix them other
greens or foods and add a dusting of Calci Dust. Once all the weeds in the tray have been
eaten the trays can be returned to the propagator and be regrown and used again.
To provide a constant supply of plants, stagger the sowing of the seed trays so that
they are ready for use at different times.
Not all wild plants are suitable for Bearded Dragons, indeed some are poisonous. The types
selected for the ProRep Beardie Plant Seed Mixture are tasty and nutritious favourites of all
Bearded Dragons. The mix will typically contain*:
Gently firm the soil with the palm of
your hand, ensuring the surface of soil
is even.
Open a sachet of seed and distribute the
seed evenly over the surface of 1 small
seed tray. Cover the seeds with a very
thin layer of soil and firm down gently.
Water very lightly but do not over water,
the soil should be just slightly damp.
Place the small seed tray into the
propagator base and cover the clear lid.
Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) Chickweed (Stellaria media)Amaranth
