Hello Friends,
As Australian Natives become more and more popular in our flower beds, back yards and landscapes, we need to consider the best way to plant, germinate and grow. Germination is not necessarily the easiest and the wait time for those little beauties to pop their heads up seems endless.
So, we should probably consider smoke treatment to ensure our little seeds not only germinate but produce healthy seedlings. There are several methods and options to use, such as, Smoke Water, Smoke Treated Vermiculite, Smoke Paper and of course using real smoke. Sounds scary, I know. The most simple way to apply smoke to your native seeds is:
The most simplest method is to spread leaf litter and other native plant materials over open soil, and burn it taking care to keep the fire under tight control. Aim for a smoulder rather than a blaze, and avoid using white-sapped plants which can release toxins as they burn. Once the fire is completely extinguished, leave the ashes to cool before sowing seeds in the soil underneath. Water well to start releasing the chemicals.
A safer method would be a fire-proof container with a lid. Such as a kettle barbecue is ideal. Place a mix of leafy material, straw, and small twigs in the base of the container, and add your seeds either on a tray above or off to the side away from direct heat. Set the mixture smouldering, cover, and allow the seeds to smoke gently for around 20 minutes. Don’t let the temperature get too hot – if it’s uncomfortable for your hand, it’s too hot for the seeds as well. At the end of the process, the seeds should be coated in a light resinous material containing the essential smokey chemicals your seeds are waiting for.
Finally, if you’re a fan of preserving and other traditional crafts, you may own a home food smoker which can be pressed into service. Cold-smoke your seeds for around 20 minutes, using a mix of native twigs and leaves rather than any gourmet wood chips you might ordinarily use.
Needless to say, when using any methods involving real smoke, it’s important to bear safety in mind. No one needs a real bushfire being set off accidentally. Never leave a fire unattended, and don’t burn any large twigs or branches which could send out sparks. Also, check with the local authorities to see if there are any fire restrictions in place before starting.