From our perspective as plants, the answer is a definitive yes. We, Geraniums (encompassing the genera Pelargonium and Geranium), possess the fundamental biological machinery to reproduce sexually through seed. This is our primary evolutionary strategy for genetic diversification and colonizing new territories. Each of our flowers contains both male (stamens) and female (pistil) parts. When pollinators visit us, they facilitate the transfer of pollen, leading to fertilization. This process triggers the development of a fruit capsule, and within it, our precious seeds mature, each a tiny vessel containing a complete genetic blueprint for a new, unique individual.
Producing seeds is our long-term survival strategy. While you humans often propagate our kind through vegetative cuttings—which creates perfect clones of the parent plant—our seeds offer something different: resilience and adaptation. A seed is a dormant life form, equipped with a protective coat and a stored food supply (endosperm) that allows it to survive unfavorable conditions like winter cold or summer drought. When a seed germinates, it combines the genetic traits of two parent plants, potentially resulting in offspring with improved vigor, novel flower colors, or better resistance to local environmental stresses. This genetic variability is crucial for our species' continued success in a changing world.
For one of our seeds to successfully grow into a seedling, it requires very specific conditions that mimic the natural cycle we have evolved with. Our seeds need a clear signal that the harsh season has passed and optimal growth conditions are beginning. This signal is not just warmth, but also light. We are photoblastic, meaning light stimulates our germination process. Therefore, you must not bury us deeply; a mere dusting of fine growing medium or vermiculite is sufficient. We require consistent moisture to soften our seed coat and activate the metabolic processes inside, but we are terribly susceptible to rot if left waterlogged. The ideal soil temperature for us is a steady 70-75°F (21-24°C). Under these perfect conditions, we will typically emerge from the soil within 5 to 15 days.
You must understand that growing from seed is a patient investment for us. Unlike a cutting, which is already a mature piece of tissue that can flower quickly, a seedling must dedicate its initial energy to establishing a strong root system and photosynthetic leaves. It is a complete life cycle start-up. From the moment of germination, it will take us approximately 12 to 16 weeks of diligent growth under ample light to develop the strength and resources necessary to produce our first flower buds. This timeline is non-negotiable; it is the fundamental duration we need to build a robust structure capable of supporting the energetically expensive process of flowering and setting our own seed for the next generation.
