#germinatingseed

[jillraggett]

Plant of the Day

Thursday 24 November 2022

This clump forming herbaceous perennial is probably Centaurea macrocephala (giant knapweed) which has fine yellow petals surrounded by shining brown papery scales. In the warm, wet autumn weather the seeds are germinating in the damp seed-heads.

Jill Raggett

[jillraggett]

Plant of the Day

Friday 8 October 2021

The large seeds of Persea americana (avocado pear, alligator pear) always seem keen to germinate in my compost heap and will often grow when the seed is suspend over water. They make fun homegrown houseplants but need a climate without frost and with little wind to flourish outside. Plants may survive a mild frost but it may cause premature fruit drop. The germinating avocado here was part of a floral art installation at the Royal Horticultural Society Chelsea Flower Show, London.

Jill Raggett

[jillraggett]

Plant of the Day

Friday 8 January 2021

The seed heads of Dipsacus fullonum (teasel) are providing a display in gardens and the countryside. This biennial retains its upright structure during the winter though the damp weather has caused some of the seeds to start germinating whilst still in the old flower heads. This is a great plant for supporting wildlife as the flowers are popular with bees and the seeds with the goldfinches.

Jill Raggett