Help - Fuchsia & Clematis "Freckles" Seeds

[bagpuss]

I have collected seeds from both of these plants which are in my garden. My problem is, I'm not sure when I should sow them etc.

Link below shows the Fuchsia.

www.bbc.co.uk/gardening/plants/plant_finder/plant_pages/8067.shtml

Any help - greatly appreciated.

[sleepysunday]

Big P will be the best person to help you with the clematis. Re the fuchsia, cuttings are the way to go rather than seed. Fuchsias take very easy from cuttings. Far easier than growing from seed, and more likely to stay true to form I would bet too.

[Plocket]

Hi Bagpuss!

You are best sowing clematis seeds fresh when the feathery bit seperates from the seedhead, but they should still be ok in spring. You should also be warned that sometimes clematis can take a couple of years to germinate, so be prepared to wait!

Spread the seeds evenly over the surface of loam-based seed compost - you can trim off the feathery bits but there's no evidence that this is actually necessary. Cover the seeds with vermiculite or sharp grit and label carefully. Put the pot(s) in a cool position out of direct sun in the garden or an unheated greenhouse/coldframe, and wait. Make sure the pots stay moist but well drained, and keep an eye out for damage by slugs and mice. When your seeds have germinated the young plants are very sensitive and need to be looked after carefully.

Be warned that you might not necessarily get a true "Freckles" - the best way to get another of the same plant is by taking cuttings or layering.

[bagpuss]

Many thanks Spleepy and Plocket for your advice. Will definitely have a go at cuttings from the Fuchsia and layering the clematis.

Thanks again