Seedling observations

[Paul Tyerman]

Howdy All,

Given we are around the seedex time and people are gradually getting their
seeds for this year I thought I'd make a couple of comments regarding last
years results.

Most of my seedlings from last year are reshooting at this point, just
coming into winter so they're inside, but at least they have survived their
first dormancy (Yippee!!).  Many of them were refridgerated for a while and
they have come back as well, so all is happy on that front <grin>.

Anyway, given I have around 8 or 9 species as mature plants it is
fascinating to see the different leaves that are emerging this year.  There
was variability within the first leaves on the seeds, but this second
season is really starting to show just what the adult leaves are going to
look like I figure.  I have everything from serated leaves to single simple
leaf-blades, three part, 5-part and some radial designs.  I had no idea
that the leaves were this variable between species.

So.... basically I am saying that things are just humming along with last
years seed and I am getting a great deal of enjoyment out of the seedlings
returning, as well as now noting all the differences.  It is so nice to get
so much fun and they haven't even flowered yet <big grin>.

Thanks again to everyone associated with last years Seedex and also to
those responsible for this years.  Where would our collections be without
you!!!!!?

I hope no-one minds this message, but I thought it was interesting to note
all the differences.  Living and learning more about Arisaemas every day.

Now I just can't wait until spring when the mature Arisaema ringens
(hopefully flowering size) hopefully flowers.  THAT will be an interesting
day.... hmmmmm, I might have to go and find someone to remove that nasty
beetle that will be attacking my flower (I just LOVED that story..).

Cheers.

Paul Tyerman
Canberra, Australia.  USDA equivalent - Zone 8/9
mailto:ptyerman at ozemail.com.au

Growing.... Galanthus, Erythroniums, Fritillarias, Cyclamen, Crocus,
Cyrtanthus, Liliums, Hellebores, Aroids, Irises plus just about anything
else that doesn't move!!!!!