How to Grow More Desert Lupine Cactus

Desert Lupine is not technically a cactus, but it is a desert-dwelling plant that requires very little water and easily survives drought. Fortunately, unlike many other desert plants, Desert Lupine reproduces quickly and easily through seed. It is an annual, so each year the old stems and flowers die, and the next year new plants emerge. Desert Lupine blooms in late winter through late spring since it grows naturally in hotter climates where most plants bloom early in the season.

Small waterproof container
Food thermometer

Instructions

- 1
  Gather Desert Lupine seeds between February and June when the flowers have faded and the seed pods begin to swell. Simply break or cut off the stems, taking care not to break open the pods.
- 2
  Harvest the seeds by gently rubbing the seed pods and cracking them open by hand until the seeds fall out. Let the seeds drop into an envelope.
- 3
  Store the seeds in a dark, dry place until fall, when temperatures begin to drop.
- 4
  Soak the seeds in hot water for at least four hours and up to 12 hours. The water temperature should be between 180 and 200 degrees F.
- 5
  Prepare the soil by raking it loose to a depth of about one-half inch.
- 6
  Sprinkle the seeds on the soil.
- 7
  Rake or sprinkle about one-eighth inch of soil on top of the seeds.
- 8
  Water the planted seeds regularly, about every two or three days, keeping the soil moist until the seeds germinate.
- 9
  Water once per week or every 10 days after germination.

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