All About Arrow Plant Seeds: Germination, Storage and Sowing

Growing arrow plants from seeds can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor for any gardener. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about arrow plant seeds – from germination to storage and sowing.

Arrow plants also known as sagittaria, are herbaceous perennials that grow in wetlands and ponds. They are native to North and South America Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia. Arrow plants got their common name from their arrow-shaped leaves that point upwards out of the water.

There are over 30 species of arrow plants, with some varieties growing in water up to 5 feet deep! Arrow plants produce white, three-petaled flowers in summer that later develop into fruit containing small black seeds.

In addition to being beautiful pond plants, arrow plants oxygenate water and provide food and shelter for fish and wildlife. Their ability to filter pollutants makes them an excellent natural water purification system.

Germinating Arrow Plant Seeds

Arrow plant seeds are relatively easy to germinate. Here are some tips for getting them started:

• Soak seeds for 24-48 hours before planting. This softens the outer coating and initiates germination.

• Sow seeds in sterile seed starting mix and cover lightly with 1/4 inch of soil.

• Keep soil moist continuously. Arrow plant seeds require constant moisture to germinate.

• Provide temperatures between 70°F to 85°F. Warmer temperatures speed up germination.

• Give seeds 14-28 days to germinate. Some varieties may take longer.

• Transplant seedlings when they develop their second set of leaves.

With proper care, arrow plant seeds generally have a high germination success rate. Avoid letting soils dry out or over saturate during this critical stage.

Storing Arrow Plant Seeds

If you harvest more seeds than you can sow immediately, proper storage is important for maintaining viability. Here are some tips:

• Allow seeds to fully ripen and dry on the plant before collecting.

• Separate seeds from fruit pulp and let dry another 1-2 days.

• Place dried seeds in an airtight container like a jar or zip-lock bag.

• Store in a cool, dark place around 40°F. The refrigerator works great.

• Use desiccant packs to absorb excess moisture and prevent mold growth.

• Label containers with seed variety and year collected.

When stored correctly, arrow plant seeds can remain viable for up to 2 years. Avoid warm, humid conditions that will quickly deteriorate seeds.

Sowing Arrow Plant Seeds

Once you’re ready to sow them, here are some steps for success:

Selecting Sites

• Choose pond margins or shallow sections 1-2 feet deep. Seeds need light to germinate.

• Ensure good sun exposure. Most arrow plants need at least 6 hours of direct sun daily.

• Check for nutrient-rich soil. Arrow plants thrive in organically enriched sediments.

• Consider USDA Hardiness Zones 4-10. Some varieties have wider climate adaptability.

Preparing Soil

• Loosen top 1-2 inches of soil and remove weeds/debris.

• Mix in 1-2 inches of compost or manure for added nutrients.

• Let soil settle 1 week before sowing if heavily amended.

Sowing Seeds

• Wait until daytime temperatures are consistently above 60°F.

• Create shallow trenches 1/4-1/2 inch deep in prepared soil.

• Sow seeds 1 inch apart in rows 6-12 inches apart.

• Cover trenches gently with soil and tamp down lightly.

• Water thoroughly after sowing and keep soil moist.

• Protect newly sown beds with floating row covers to retain warmth and moisture.

With attentive care, you should see arrow plant seedlings emerge within 14-28 days. Thin overcrowded areas and transplant to maintain proper spacing.

Arrow Plant Seedling Care

Arrow plant seedlings need consistent moisture and protection from extreme weather fluctuations. Here are some tips for this fragile stage:

• Water morning and evening to keep soil constantly moist 1-2 inches down.

• Apply liquid fertilizer like fish emulsion every 2-3 weeks.

• Install shade barriers if seedlings show signs of scorching.

• Use floating row covers overnight if frost threatens.

• Weed gently by hand to avoid damaging shallow roots.

• Transplant sprouts that are overcrowded or spindly to allow for growth. Space plants 12-24 inches apart.

With attentive care and ideal growing conditions, arrow plant seedlings will rapidly establish and mature into beautiful aquatic specimens!

Troubleshooting Arrow Plant Germination Issues

Despite your best efforts, arrow plant seeds may sometimes be slow or fail to germinate. Here are some potential causes and solutions:

Problem: Seeds rotting before sprouting

Cause: Overwatering, poor drainage, fungal disease

Solution: Sow in well-draining soil, avoid oversaturating, treat fungi

Problem: Seeds failing to sprout

Cause: Improper planting depth, cold soil, lack of light

Solution: Sow seeds just below surface, warm soil to 70°F+, ensure sun exposure

Problem: Seedlings dying after sprouting

Cause: Underwatering, temperature extremes, pests

Solution: Maintain constant moisture, protect from weather, control pests

Problem: Sparse, weak growth

Cause: Nutrient deficiency, insufficient light

Solution: Fertilize regularly, increase sunlight

Don’t hesitate to restart if your first attempt fails. Learning from challenges will make you a seasoned arrow plant grower in no time!

From germination through maturity, growing arrow plants from seeds is a fun learning process. Follow this guide for all the essential information you need for success.

The rich rewards of lush aquatic arrow plants are well worth the initial effort. Before you know it, you’ll have vigorous arrow plant stands helping filter your pond’s water naturally.