How to grow lisianthus from seeds

Growing lisianthus (Eustoma) from pelleted seeds needs patience and precision, but the results are worth it. Follow this step-by-step method for best success:

---

🌱 Step-by-Step Guide to Grow Lisianthus from Pelleted Seeds

1. Right Time to Sow

• Best time: September–October (India, mild winter regions)
• Lisianthus needs cool temperatures to germinate properly.

---

2. Growing Medium

• Use a fine, well-drained, sterile seed-starting mix
• Ideal mix: cocopeat + perlite + vermiculite (2:1:1)
• pH should be slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–6.5)

---

3. Sowing the Pelleted Seeds

• Do NOT bury the seeds
• Place 1 seed per cell on the surface
• Gently press so it touches the soil
• Pelleted seeds need light to germinate

---

4. Moisture & Covering

• Mist lightly with a spray bottle
• Cover with a transparent lid or plastic to maintain humidity
• Soil must be moist, not wet

---

5. Temperature & Light

• Germination temperature: 18–22°C
• Avoid heat above 25°C
• Provide bright indirect light or grow lights
• No direct sunlight at this stage

⏳ Germination time: 10–20 days

---

6. After Germination Care

• Remove cover once seedlings appear
• Keep temperature cool (15–20°C)
• Water from the bottom to avoid damping-off
• Growth is very slow initially (this is normal)

---

7. Transplanting

• Transplant after 6–8 weeks, when 4–6 true leaves appear
• Be extremely gentle—roots are delicate
• Final spacing: 15–20 cm

---

8. Fertilizing

• Start light feeding after 3–4 weeks
• Use balanced liquid fertilizer (¼ strength) once every 10–14 days

---

9. Flowering

• Flowers appear in 5–6 months
• Keep plants in cool, sunny locations
• Too much heat causes bud drop or no flowering

---

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Covering seeds with soil
• ❌ High temperature during germination
• ❌ Overwatering
• ❌ Expecting fast growth