Growing Mamaki

 More information about this plant can be found in the Mamaki Herbarium entry: https://de-sacris-plantae.blogspot.com/2019/02/herbarium-mamaki.html

Mamaki is a plant that likes it moist and warm. The life span of the plant is reported to be 5-10 years. The seeds seem to need light for germination and are very small, so it is sufficient to sprinkle them on moist soil, and cover with plastic wrap to prevent the soil from drying out too quickly. Regular airing is recommended to prevent mold. The seeds were scattered in summer, so no heating mat or similar was necessary. Mamaki seeds should germinate also at not so high temperatures, approx. 15°C-30°C are indicated. The germination period should be about 3 weeks in favorable conditions.

18.05.2019

The tiny Mamaki seeds were scattered on moist soil, and covered with a plastic sheet to guarantee high humidity. The seeds are so small that they can hardly be seen with the naked eye. The container with the scattered seeds was placed in a bright place by the window. Ordinary potting soil was used.

04.06.2019

First signs of germination after not quite 3 weeks. The plastic film is still covers the pot.

13.06.2019

Several seeds have germinated in the meantime and growth progress can be seen.

23.06.2019

Growth after about 10 days, the small seedlings get little direct sun.

29.06.2019

Meanwhile, the small plantlets bump into the plastic film stretched over them, so to increase the humidity of the air, a plastic bag was put over the pot. The seedlings are very fragile and easily topple over, caution when watering is beneficial.

14.07.2019

Slowly wean the plants from the plastic bag over 2-3 weeks, gradually cutting small holes in it. Mamaki does well with room humidity (at least in summer), but some dried leaves and spots are to be expected. The soil should never dry out completely, as the plant likes it moist.

27.07.2019

The plants were placed in individual pots.

09.08.2019

Felt pots were also used, which were not so optimal for Mamaki, because the soil dries out faster, which is not very good for the plant.

Mamaki in and of itself is not a difficult plant to grow. However, it does need attention as it does not tolerate dry air well and needs to be watered regularly. Since it likes moist soil, it would also be beneficial to provide loose soil to prevent root rot. However, it seems to do well with normal potting soil. Mamaki does not seem to be a heavy feeder, but will certainly appreciate fertilization from time to time. Mamaki seeds are easy to obtain over the internet.