Succulent and cactus seeds
Undemanding plants with thick leaves and bizarre shapes are among the most rewarding to grow from seed. Here you will find succulent and cactus seeds: rosette echeverias and houseleeks, living stones (lithops), globular and columnar cacti, and collector mixes. For each packet we list the germination needs and recommended temperature.
Succulent and cactus seeds
Growing cacti and succulents from seed is slow but all the more fascinating — from a tiny seed a fine plant emerges over a few years. The range includes succulent and cactus seeds: rosette echeverias, houseleeks and sedums, unusual living stones (lithops and conophytum), globular and columnar cacti, and colourful collector mixes.
The seeds germinate in warmth and moisture. They are sown on a free-draining, mineral substrate, on the surface only, as most species are light-germinators. An indoor mini-greenhouse around 25 °C with steady humidity is ideal; the seedlings are aired gradually so they get used to drier air.
Young seedlings grow slowly and need different care in the first months than mature plants — more moisture and less direct sun. After germination, keep the substrate slightly moist but not wet, or mould and rot set in. Prick out only once the little plants have strengthened.
When choosing, consider whether you prefer faster rosette succulents or slower but long-lived cacti. Most species are houseplants that appreciate a bright, airy spot in summer. Store the seed packets somewhere dry and cool; the germination rate holds for a good while.