• Wattles growing well in individual tubes. These will soon be ready for planting in the garden
• If necessary, this seedling could be transferred to another tube. Handle carefully because its roots are very sensitive.

Wattle Propagation

Collection

Collect wattle seed when fully ripe and just before the pods open.  Once pods open, the seeds scatter and are impossible to collect.  If unsure, tie a paper bag or stocking around the pods on the tree just in case they open when you are not noticing.

Once pods open, remove the seeds from the bag or stocking.  If necessary, remove debris by sieving.

Seed Treatment

Wattle seeds require pre-treatment before germination will commence.  The simplest method is to place the seed in a cup and pour boiling water over it.  Leave to soak overnight.  This softens the hard coating and the seed absorbs water and swells.  Transfer swollen seeds to the sowing punnet.  Discard seeds that float because they probably have insect damage.  Those seeds that have not swollen may be left longer or treated again.

Sowing

Seeds are easier to handle if they are dried briefly on paper towel.

Wattles do not take kindly to root disturbance and therefore are best sown individually into punnets.  Cover seed to a depth of approximately twice the diameter of the seed.  Water in and keep moist; do not allow to dry out once planted.

Most treated wattle seed germinates within about 7 days although some take longer.

If seeds are not treated, they may take a long time to germinate.

If you have not sown seed individually, you will need to prick out seedlings singly into pots at a very early stage, preferably at the first true leaf stage.  Careful handling at this point is critical.  Even so, expect some losses compared to seedlings growing from individually sown seed.