The Barbados Cherry (Malpighia emarginata) is a tropical shrub or small tree known for its attractive foliage and vibrant red fruits. Cultivated as an ornamental in warmer climates, its small, tart fruits are also valued for their high vitamin C content.
Obtaining and Preparing Barbados Cherry Seeds
Acquiring Barbados Cherry seeds involves extracting them from fresh, ripe fruit or purchasing them from a reputable supplier. If using fresh fruit, thoroughly clean the pulp from around the seeds, as residual flesh can inhibit germination and encourage fungal growth. After cleaning, air dry the seeds for a day or two, avoiding excessive drying that could damage the embryo.
Barbados Cherry seeds have a hard outer coat that prevents water absorption, delaying germination. To overcome this, scarification, which physically breaks down the seed coat, is beneficial. Gently rub seeds with fine-grit sandpaper or carefully nick them with a small file to create tiny openings for moisture. Alternatively, a brief soak in warm water for 24 hours can soften the seed coat.
Following scarification, cold stratification can improve germination rates. Place prepared seeds in a moist medium, such as peat moss or sand, inside a sealed plastic bag and refrigerate for a few weeks. This mimics natural winter conditions, signaling to the seed that spring is approaching.
Planting Barbados Cherry Seeds
Once prepared, Barbados Cherry seeds are ready for planting. Select a well-draining, sterile potting mix, like a seed-starting blend, to prevent damping-off disease. Small pots (3-4 inches) or seed trays work well for initial planting.
Plant seeds shallowly, covering them with about 1/4 to 1/2 inch of potting mix. Deeper planting can hinder germination. After planting, gently water the soil to ensure it is consistently moist but never waterlogged.
Place containers in a warm location, ideally 70-85°F (21-29°C). Provide indirect light, such as near a bright window or under grow lights, but avoid direct, intense sunlight. Germination can be variable, taking several weeks to a few months.
Care for Barbados Cherry Seedlings
After Barbados Cherry seeds germinate and seedlings emerge, provide optimal care for their continued development. Seedlings thrive in bright, indirect light; position them near a south-facing window or under fluorescent grow lights for 12-14 hours daily. Direct, harsh sunlight can scorch tender leaves.
Maintain consistent soil moisture; the potting mix should remain evenly damp but never soggy. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly before watering again to prevent root rot and damping-off disease. Ensuring good air circulation, perhaps with a small fan, also helps deter fungal problems.
If multiple seedlings emerge in a single pot, thin them by carefully snipping the weaker ones at the soil line, leaving the strongest. Once young plants develop two to three sets of true leaves, they are ready for transplanting. Carefully move each seedling into its own larger pot (6-8 inches), filled with a good quality, well-draining potting mix, minimizing disturbance to their delicate root systems.
What to Expect from Seed-Grown Barbados Cherry
Growing Barbados Cherry from seed requires patience, as germination can be prolonged and erratic, taking weeks to months. Once sprouted, young seedlings exhibit a moderate growth rate. Initial growth may seem slow as the plant establishes its root system.
Seed-grown plants take longer to reach maturity and produce fruit compared to those from cuttings. Expect a seed-grown Barbados Cherry to begin fruiting 3 to 5 years after germination, depending on conditions and care.
Seed-grown Barbados Cherry has potential for genetic variability. Unlike plants from cuttings, which are clones, seedlings may not be identical to the parent. This means fruit quality, plant size, or growth habit could differ from the original tree.