Castor bean propogation

[manicorganic]

Each year I try and save some of the seed from my castor beans. I have tried soaking the seed, nicking the seed with a small knife. I never get any germination. Does anyone have a secret for these puppies as each year I have to go out and buy new ones. I wintered one over in the house as it was small and want to see how huge I can get it this summer. They are so beautiful and tropical. I want more. Help!

[TonyF]

I was given two lots of seeds this year and was told to soak them overnight in warm water, well warm to start with. Have been in pots for almost three weeks but no sign of germination as yet, will let you know whether I get any results manicorganic.

[roitelet]

I pinched some from one of the communal flower tubs las year I soaked them overnight in water and then put them in a plastic box with damp kitchen paper next to the wood burner. They germinated in about 4 days and are now growing at and alarming rate. They are still inside and it will be about 6 weeks before I can put then out safely so I may have to move out

[TonyF]

And of course they are`deadly poisonous seeds so keep them away from small folks.

[Snadger]

And of course they are`deadly poisonous seeds so keep them away from small folks.

I seem to remember from a Columbo episode or something that a deadly poison called riesin, I think, comes from castor beans???

[TonyF]

2 seeds - which look like ticks, hence their botanical name - will give an adult a serious case of the runs - like seriously serious.

Eight (8) are reckoned to kill a well grown adult!

[Snadger]

2 seeds - which look like ticks, hence their botanical name - will give an adult a serious case of the runs - like seriously serious.

Eight (8) are reckoned to kill a well grown adult!

Bit like a multi storey library I suppose then!