How to Germinate a Chocolate Vine Indoors

The chocolate vine (Akebia quinata) is a trailing ground cover or climbing vine that is an extremely vigorous grower, albeit somewhat difficult to germinate. Once established, plants spread vigorously, using objects and other plants as hosts to climb and twine around. In fact, it can cover an area 20 feet wide and 40 feet tall if not cut back, so it should be planted where it has plenty of room to grow and will not conflict with other plants. Both flowers and foliage of this Japan native are attractive and aromatic. Female flowers are a chocolate-brown while male flowers are pink and cinnamon-scented. When pollinated, they produce edible fruits that are shaped like purple bananas. The fruit has a pulp with a sweet flavor, somewhat like tapioca.

Plastic bag
Potting soil
Seedling tray
Pots
Pruning shears

Instructions

- 1
  Obtain seeds from ripe pods of a mature chocolate vine. Once the vine is 5 or more years old and fruit ripens, the pods will split open, revealing tiny black or brownish seeds. Ripening occurs from late September to early October. Seeds purchased or stored may require cold stratification.
- 2
  Place seeds in a plastic bag containing semimoist potting soil, if seeds have been stored and are not fresh, and keep in a refrigerator for 30 days. This is called cold stratification and improves germination rate by mimicking the winter season.
- 3
  Plant seeds immediately after removing from pods and place in a seedling tray containing well-drained soil that retains moisture well. Place in a location with some sunlight. Seeds will germinate in one to three months at 58 degrees Fahrenheit.
- 4
  Transplant seedlings into individual pots containing moist potting soil, preferably while they are still very young. Use care when transplanting and avoid disturbing the root system. Place in a lightly shaded location in a greenhouse during their first winter, if you live in a frost-prone region.
- 5
  Plant into the garden once danger of frost is past. Select a sheltered location and a north-facing wall with part or full sun.
- 6
  Trim with pruning shears in early spring to control the vigorous growth of this vine. Keep in mind that the chocolate vine can be invasive, as it can prevent the germination of other plants.

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