Episode 310: OTL sowalong - pollinating and growing Anthuriums from seed with The Plant Parlour
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In this episode of On The Ledge, host Jane Perrone dives into the intricate world of growing anthuriums from seed, guided by expert Gemma Hay, known as The Plant Parlour. The conversation explores the entire process—from pollinating the unique spadix flowers, which transition from female to male stages, to harvesting berries and germinating seeds. Gemma emphasizes the importance of timing, humidity, and patience, noting that successful pollination often requires greenhouse conditions with higher humidity (70%+) and natural light. She shares practical tips like using paintbrushes or fingers to transfer pollen, labeling inflorescences, and using organza bags to protect developing berries. The episode highlights the unpredictability and joy of plant breeding, where each seedling is a surprise due to genetic variation. Jane reflects on how this slow, uncertain process offers a meaningful counterpoint to today’s instant-gratification culture.
Anthurium seeds must be planted within 2–3 weeks of harvest, as they lose viability quickly.
Pollination must occur during the female stage of the spadix, when stigmatic fluid is present.
Higher humidity (70%+) and natural light in a greenhouse significantly improve pollination success.
Label every inflorescence and use organza bags to protect developing berries from contamination.
Seedlings should be potted up when they have 1–3 leaves and 1 inch of root growth, preferably using semi-hydro systems.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Introduction to the OTL Sew-Along & Anthurium Seed Growing
Jane Perrone introduces the episode as part of the On The Ledge Sew-Along, focusing on growing anthuriums from seed. She explains the educational and experimental value of seed propagation and introduces guest Gemma Hay, a renowned houseplant designer and anthurium expert.
Understanding Anthurium Pollination: The Science Behind the Process
“You have to have that little fluid and you have to paint it with the pollen whilst you have that stigmatic fluid present on that spadix. Otherwise, it's just not going to work.”
Pollination Techniques and Cross-Breeding Strategies
“It's a bit of a luck of the draw, you never know what you're going to get from the offspring.”
Berries, Harvesting, and Seed Preparation
Gemma details how to identify mature berries, the importance of quick harvest, and methods for extracting seeds. She advises against eating the berries and recommends using damp kitchen paper or water rinsing to remove sticky juice and prevent rot.
Germination, Potting, and the Patience of Plant Breeding
“It is a labour of love... you do have to be very, very patient.”
“You have to have that little fluid and you have to paint it with the pollen whilst you have that stigmatic fluid present on that spadix. Otherwise, it's just not going to work.”
“It's a bit of a luck of the draw, you never know what you're going to get from the offspring.”
“It is a labour of love... you do have to be very, very patient.”
Host
Guest
Anthurium
other
Gemma Hay
person
Jane Perrone
person
Spadix
other
On The Ledge Sew-Along
other
Sphagnum Moss
other
Patreon
other
The Plant Parlour
brand
other
Lecois
brand
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