Germination of the Moon Vine

Seed Preparation

• Moon vine seeds have a hard coating that slows down germination if left undisturbed. Nick the coating with a sharp knife, then drop the seeds into a container filled with warm water and allow them to soak overnight. This softens the coating and makes it easier for the seedlings to sprout. Prepare growing containers just before removing the seeds from the water so that they don't dry out before being planted.

Planting Moon Vine Seeds

• A sterile, soilless growing medium that is lightweight enough to allow for easy germination is ideal for developing seedlings. Choose a container with good drainage so that the developing roots don't rot if too much water is provided. Plant the moon vine seeds 1 inch deep and add only two seeds to each container. Water until the soil is lightly moist and move the containers to a bright location with temperatures of 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Germination occurs in about four to seven days.

Care of Seedlings

• The seedlings require little attention after germination occurs. Once the first set of true leaves has formed, which are those that develop after the initial leaves emerge, snip off the weakest looking plant at soil level. Weaker seedlings are generally smaller, have misshapen leaves or an unhealthy color. Keep the growing mix lightly moist, but always check before watering because too much moisture can quickly kill the seedlings. Fertilize the plants each week with balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer mixed at half the strength indicated on package directions.

Transplanting

• Move moon vine seedlings to a prepared spot in the garden once they are 3 to 4 inches tall and frost is no longer expected. A growing site with full sun exposure and soil with excellent drainage produces the best results. Plant the young vines with their roots at their original level and provide them with a thorough soaking at planting time. If a climbing structure isn't already available, set one in place when planting because the vigorous young vines begin to twine almost immediately. Keep the soil lightly moist throughout the growing season and mulch around the plants to prevent weeds.