Harvesting Santol Seeds for Future Propagation

Santol (Sandoricum koetjape) is a tropical fruit tree native to Southeast Asia. It is commonly grown for its delicious and juicy fruits. If you want to propagate santol trees, harvesting the seeds is an essential step. Here is a detailed guide on how to harvest santol seeds for future propagation:

1. Selecting Ripe Fruits

Choose fully matured santol fruits that are ripe and ready for harvesting. Ripe santol fruits have a bright yellow or orange color and a slightly soft texture. Avoid picking unripe or overripe fruits as they may not produce viable seeds.

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2. Extracting the Seeds

Once you have selected the ripe fruits, gently cut them open using a sharp knife. Inside the fruit, you will find several seeds surrounded by a white, fleshy pulp. Carefully remove the seeds from the pulp, making sure not to damage them.

3. Cleaning the Seeds

After extracting the seeds, rinse them thoroughly under running water to remove any remaining pulp or debris. Use your fingers or a soft brush to gently scrub the seeds, ensuring they are clean and free from any contaminants.

4. Drying the Seeds

Place the cleaned santol seeds on a clean, dry surface such as a paper towel or a mesh screen. Allow the seeds to air dry in a well-ventilated area for about a week. Make sure to turn the seeds occasionally to ensure even drying.

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5. Storing the Seeds

Once the seeds are completely dry, transfer them to airtight containers such as glass jars or sealed plastic bags. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Properly stored santol seeds can remain viable for up to a year.

6. Testing Seed Viability

Before planting the santol seeds, it is advisable to perform a viability test to determine their germination rate. Take a few seeds and place them on a damp paper towel or in a seed tray filled with moist soil. Keep the seeds in a warm and humid environment and monitor their germination progress over a few weeks.

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If a high percentage of seeds sprout, it indicates good viability, and you can proceed with planting the rest of the seeds. However, if only a few seeds germinate, it may be necessary to collect fresh seeds or explore other propagation methods.

By following these steps, you can successfully harvest santol seeds for future propagation. Remember to always use verified and existing terms to ensure accurate information in the field of agriculture.

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