From our point of view, the journey begins in a state of dormancy. We, jasmine seeds, possess a hard outer coat that protects our internal embryo but also prevents immediate water absorption. This is a survival mechanism to ensure we do not germinate during an unfavorable short warm spell in autumn, only to be killed by winter frost. To break this dormancy and convince us that winter has passed, we require a period of cold, moist stratification. This process mimics the natural winter conditions we would experience on the forest floor. By placing us in a moist medium like sand or peat moss inside a sealed plastic bag and refrigerating us for 4-6 weeks, you are essentially tricking us into believing spring has arrived once we are warmed again. This cold period softens our seed coat and triggers the internal biochemical signals to begin growth.
Once our dormancy is broken, our needs become very specific. We require a well-draining, sterile seed-starting mix. A heavy, nutrient-rich soil or garden soil is often too dense and may harbor fungi that can attack us before we even have a chance. The consistent moisture is critical; our tiny roots must never dry out during this vulnerable stage. However, saturation is equally dangerous, as it suffocates us by cutting off oxygen. The final key element is bottom heat. Placing our container on a propagation mat or a warm appliance provides a consistent soil temperature of 70-75°F (21-24°C), which is the ideal signal from our environment that conditions are perfect for pushing our radicle (first root) down and our cotyledons (first leaves) up towards the light.
As we emerge from the soil, our energy reserves from the seed are nearly depleted. We are extremely vulnerable. At this stage, we need abundant, but indirect, light. A bright windowsill or a grow light positioned a few inches above us prevents us from becoming leggy as we desperately stretch for a light source. Direct, harsh sunlight will scorch our delicate new leaves. This is also the time when we develop our first true leaves, which look different from the initial cotyledons. These true leaves will begin the vital work of photosynthesis, allowing us to create our own food and become self-sufficient. It is a fragile and energy-intensive process.
Do not expect rapid growth immediately. Our primary focus as young plants is on establishing a strong, healthy root system. This happens beneath the soil, out of sight. Once our roots are sufficiently developed, we will then dedicate more energy to our vining stems and foliage. We are natural climbers and will eventually need a small trellis or support to guide our growth habit. It is important to understand that growing from seed is a test of patience. Unlike our vegetatively propagated cousins, who are genetic clones of a mature plant and may flower within a year, we seedlings are on our own unique genetic journey. It may take us two to three years, or even longer, to reach maturity and produce our first fragrant blossoms, as we must progress through our complete juvenile phase.
