Want to grow a Desert Rose from seed?
It’s easier than you think!
With the right tactics, you can grow these stunning plants at home. Discover 8 simple steps to get started.
Ready to see your garden bloom?
Let’s go!
Choose High-Quality Seeds
Your first step? Pick high-quality seeds from a reliable source.
The better the seeds, the healthier your Desert Rose will be. Take your time and order from trusted online stores or visit a local nursery.
Fresh seeds tend to have a better germination rate, so avoid seeds that look old or damaged. It’s worth it to spend a little extra on good seeds!
Prepare the Soil
Desert Roses need well-draining soil to thrive. You can buy cactus or succulent soil from a store, or you can make your own mix.
Combine equal parts of potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite. Mix it well to get a gritty texture that can drain water easily.
This will help prevent the seeds from rotting and give them the best chance to sprout.
Plant the Seeds
Time to get those seeds in the soil! Fill small pots or a seed tray with your prepared soil.
Moisten the soil lightly, but don’t soak it. Place the seeds on top of the soil and gently press them down.
Cover them with a thin layer of soil, just enough to hide them. Too much soil can make it hard for the seeds to break through.
Keep Them Moist
Watering is key in this stage. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
You can use a spray bottle to mist the soil lightly. Overwatering can cause the seeds to rot, so be cautious.
Cover the pots or trays with a clear plastic bag or lid to create a humid environment. This will help speed up germination.
You should see sprouts in 1-3 weeks.
Provide Plenty of Light
Light is crucial for your young Desert Roses. Once seeds sprout, they need lots of sunlight to grow strong.
Place your pots near a sunny window. If natural light is limited, consider using grow lights.
Aim for around 12 hours of light each day. Rotate the pots occasionally to make sure all sides get enough light, preventing your sprouts from becoming leggy.
Transplant with Care
When your seedlings have a few sets of leaves, they’re ready to move to larger pots. Choose pots with good drainage holes.
Gently remove the seedlings from their starter pots, taking care not to damage their roots. Fill the new pots with the same well-draining soil mix.
Water lightly after transplanting and give them some time to adjust to their new home.
Feed Your Plants
Desert Roses love a bit of nutrition. About a month after transplanting, start feeding them with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Dilute it to half-strength to avoid burning the young plants. Fertilize once a month during the growing season.
This will help them grow stronger and produce those gorgeous flowers.
Watch for Pests
Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids and spider mites. These little critters can wreak havoc on your Desert Roses.
If you notice any pests, take action quickly. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can effectively deal with them.
Also, make sure your plants have good air circulation to discourage pests from settling in.