Where to Find Quality Castor Plant Seeds for Sale

Castor plant seeds are in high demand lately for their many uses, from castor oil production to ornamental landscaping I’ve done extensive research to find the most reputable places to buy bulk castor seeds online for the best prices In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share everything you need to know to get your hands on high quality castor bean seeds for sale.

An Overview of the Castor Plant

The castor plant, scientifically known as Ricinus communis, is a fast-growing annual plant that can reach up to 15 feet tall in one season. It is native to tropical Africa but grows as an annual in temperate regions.

The castor plant produces spiny seed pods containing castor beans. Castor beans are high in ricin, a toxic lectin protein. However, when processed correctly castor beans yield castor oil which has a wide variety of uses.

Castor oil has traditionally been used as an industrial lubricant and in medicines. Today it is also popular in cosmetics and as a natural moisturizer The oil is also gaining popularity as a feedstock for biodiesel fuel production

In addition to oil production, castor bean plants are also popular ornamentals. Their tropical look makes them ideal for garden borders and outdoor containers. The red, green, and brown mottled seeds are highly decorative.

Key Benefits of Castor Seeds

There are several key reasons why castor plant seeds are so popular right now:

• Castor oil has hundreds of industrial uses, from biodiesel production to manufacturing plastics, nylon, and lubricants. The global demand for castor oil is increasing.

• Castor oil is often used medicinally as a laxative and to induce labor. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.

• In cosmetics, castor oil is prized for its emollient properties. It’s an excellent natural moisturizer for hair and skin.

• Castor plants grow quickly and easily from seed, reaching maturity in one growing season.

• The flowers and seeds of castor bean plants are beautiful ornamentals with tropical appeal.

• Castor seeds are easy to store long term and have a long shelf life compared to many other seeds.

What to Look for When Buying Castor Seeds

If you’re considering growing castor bean plants, make sure to source high quality castor seeds. Here are a few tips:

• Look for fresh seeds with high germination rates, ideally above 90%. Old or stale castor seeds may fail to sprout.

• Seek out seeds labeled Ricinus communis. Other varieties like the giant castor bean plant exist, but Ricinus communis is the most common.

• Castor seeds are often treated with fungicides. Opt for untreated, non-GMO organic seeds if this is important to you.

• Buy from reputable suppliers who store seeds properly in cool, dark warehouses. Improper storage reduces seed viability over time.

• Consider purchasing scarified castor seeds, which have had their tough outer coat lightly scratched. This speeds up germination.

• If planning to press your own castor oil, look for castor bean varieties with high oil content, ideally around 55%.

Where to Buy Castor Seeds Online

Several reputable online seed retailers offer castor seeds for sale in bulk quantities. Here are some of the top places to buy castor seeds online:

Main Street Seed and Supply

This seed supplier offers excellent prices when you buy castor seeds in bulk directly from their website. Bulk sizes range from 1/4 pound to 10+ pounds. Their castor bean seeds have a 90% germination rate and are non-GMO.

Amazon

Searching castor bean seeds on Amazon yields many results from third party sellers. Look closely at reviews and details to assess quality. Prices and minimum orders vary. Some Amazon sellers also sell on Etsy.

Etsy

Independent growers on Etsy offer smaller quantities of castor seeds, some organic and heirloom. Etsy shop Castor Bean Plant Seeds by SeedvilleUSA has excellent reviews. Prices tend to be higher than bulk seed retailers.

eBay

Both large and small eBay sellers offer castor plant seeds. Shop listings closely to evaluate seller reputation, seed freshness, pricing, and shipping. Sort by lowest price + shipping to find the best deals.

Territorial Seed Company

This veteran owned company sells seeds for edible and ornamental plants. They offer a packet of 15 castor bean seeds for around $4, or 1/2 pound for about $30. High germination rate.

Eden Brothers

This discount seed store sells a packet of 10 castor bean seeds for around $3.50. Larger half pound and one pound sizes available too. They promise healthy, viable seeds.

Seed Savers Exchange

This nonprofit focuses on heirloom and open pollinated seeds. They offer a couple heirloom castor bean varieties in packs of 20 seeds or more for around $4 per pack.

Outsidepride

Specializing in landscaping plants, Outsidepride sells 50 castor bean seeds for around $9. Reviews are positive for viability and germination.

No matter where you choose to buy castor seeds, always look for fresh seeds from a reputable supplier who stores them properly. And remember – castor beans are poisonous if ingested, so handle carefully!

How Many Castor Seeds to Buy

How many castor bean seeds you need depends on your intended use. Here are some typical amounts:

• Ornamental planting: For decorating, 10-20 seeds per plant you want to grow.

• Oil production: 1-5 pounds of seeds if pressing small batches of oil at home. Up to 50 pounds for larger scale production.

• Selling seeds: 1 pound bags or 1/2 pound retail packs. Buy wholesale bulk seeds and repackage.

• Plant breeding: At least 100 seeds, ideally more for genetic diversity in your breeding stock.

Remember, castor seeds can be stored for up to 5 years if kept cool and dry, so stocking up is fine. Just ensure proper storage conditions to maintain viability.

Caring for Castor Beans from Seed to Harvest

Once you’ve secured high quality castor bean seeds, a few simple steps will help ensure a healthy crop:

• Start seeds indoors 2-3 weeks before your last spring frost. Soak them for 24 hours prior to planting to speed germination.

• Sow seeds 1 inch deep and 2 inches apart in pots or flats. Keep soil moist but not saturated.

• Transplant seedlings outside after all danger of frost, when plants have 4-6 leaves. Space holes 2 feet apart in all directions.

• Castor beans thrive in full sun and warm weather. Ensure well-drained soil with a pH between 6-7.5.

• Water weekly if rain is insufficient. Fertilize monthly with a balanced 10-10-10 formula.

• Monitor for pests like aphids, mites, and caterpillars. Remove by hand or use organic insecticidal soap.

• Harvest seed pods when they turn brown and start to split. Air dry pods further indoors before removing seeds.

• Store seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain viability.

Following a few best practices when buying, planting, and storing castor seeds will set you up for success growing this versatile and useful plant. With quality castor bean seeds and proper care, you can enjoy the benefits of castor oil production or decorative tropical-looking plants.