Shikakai (Acacia Concinna)Seed, Raw and Natural, Shikakai Raw for Hair Care, use for Home Garden Plant Nursery pack of 100 gm

Highlight

• Organic Plant Seed
• Botanical Name: Shikaka
• Suitable For: Outdoor
• Seed's Color: Black
• Type of Seed: Herb, Tree
• Growing season: Spring to Summer
• Moisture Needs: Moderate Watering
• Package Contain: Pack Of 100 gm seeds

Description 

Growing Acacia concinna (shikakai) from seeds can be a rewarding process. Shikakai is a tree native to Asia, known for its hair care benefits due to its natural cleansing and conditioning properties. Here's a general guide on how to grow Acacia concinna (shikakai) from seeds:

Seed Collection: Obtain fresh, mature seeds from a reliable source. This can be from a reputable seller or collected from mature shikakai pods.

Seed Scarification (Optional): Shikakai seeds have a hard seed coat that can be difficult to penetrate. To improve germination, you can scarify the seeds by lightly sanding or nicking the outer seed coat. This allows water to penetrate and stimulate germination.

Soil Preparation: Use a well-draining potting mix with a combination of garden soil, sand, and organic compost. Fill small pots or seed trays with this mixture.

Sowing Seeds: Plant the scarified or unscarified seeds about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep in the soil. Place one seed per pot or space them a few inches apart if using a seed tray.

Watering: Water the soil thoroughly after sowing the seeds. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Use a spray bottle or a gentle stream of water to avoid displacing the seeds.

Germination: Shikakai seeds typically germinate within a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on conditions. Maintain a warm and humid environment to encourage germination.

Light: Place the pots or seed trays in a location with bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid exposing the seeds to harsh, direct sunlight, especially during the initial stages.

Transplanting: Once the seedlings have grown a few inches tall and have developed a few sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the garden.

Hardening Off: If you plan to transplant the seedlings outdoors, gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions by exposing them to sunlight and outdoor temperatures for increasing durations over a week or two.

Outdoor Planting: Choose a sunny to partially shaded spot in your garden with well-draining soil. Space the transplanted seedlings at least a few feet apart to allow for their growth.

Regular Care: Water the plants regularly, especially during dry spells. Mulch around the base of the plants to conserve moisture and control weeds. Fertilize with a balanced organic fertilizer during the growing season.

Pruning and Maintenance: As the shikakai plant grows, you may need to prune it to encourage a strong structure and shape. Regular pruning can also help improve airflow and reduce disease risks.

Harvesting: Shikakai pods are typically harvested when they turn brown and begin to split open naturally. Collect the pods and allow them to dry. Once dried, you can extract the seeds for future planting.

Remember that growing plants from seeds requires patience and care. Conditions such as temperature, humidity, and sunlight can influence the germination process. If you encounter challenges or have specific questions, local gardening resources or experts may be able to provide guidance tailored to your region's conditions.