Hi Jacqui,

I would think you should see some germination by now, but don't give up yet..I'm not sure exactly how long it been..but this is why I suggested that for the first time you soak some and plant some. Maybe you did? The good think about soaking, is they seem to like swimming in the water whereas if the soil is too wet, they can rot..go figure. You definitely have to watch over them more if they are planted directly in soil..soaking is easy as long as you keep the water fresh.

I had about 20 seeds of a papilio cross soaking and about half of them had grown a leaf about 1 1/2" long so I planted them. But I got lazy and decided to plant the rest of the soaking at the same time as well. All but one of the smaller soaking sprouts died. All of the sprouts with a nice leaf are going strong. Keep us posted and good luck..

To tell you the truth when I first started with seeds I used to plant them directly also..I had so darn many that if only a small percentage lived, I was satisfied. Now I just soak a small portion of most crosses and get much better results that way. If for whatever reason a soaking doesn't yield many germinating seeds, I can always soak another batch in a few weeks for a second try.

This is just my opinion and what works for me...

Donna

Hi Donna, thanks for the advice, I think the problem is I didn't soak the seeds first, How long do you soak them for? I have kept them nice and moist, but not too much, since planting. The main bulb is looking really good, so if this lot don't make it, then I will have to try all over again next year! Anyway it has been great chatting to you all over the world. Jacqui

Jacqui,
I think we need to all come to the south of France to help you with your seedlings (grin). Honestly, I've had some seedlings take 3 weeks to sprout. I think it depends on the density of the soil that they are planted in. Don't give up my friend!!
:-)
Kristi