Akebia trifoliata Seeds, Three-leaved Akebia

Sowing **Akebia trifoliata** (trifoliate akebia), an ornamental and fruit-bearing climbing plant, is similar to that of **Akebia quinata**, but requires a little patience due to the natural dormancy of its seeds. Here is a step-by-step guide to successful sowing:

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### Materials needed:
- **Akebia trifoliata** seeds.
- Light, well-drained substrate (mixture of seedling soil, sand and compost).
- Small pots or seedling trays.
- Spray bottle or watering can with low flow.
- Stratification tray or refrigerator (to break dormancy).
- Mini greenhouse or transparent plastic bag (optional).

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### Steps for sowing:

#### 1. **Seed harvest and preparation**:
- Seeds can be harvested in the fall, from ripe fruits.
- Clean the seeds carefully to remove any remaining pulp, then let them air dry for a few hours.

#### 2. **Cold stratification (essential)**:
- **Akebia trifoliata** seeds require a period of cold stratification to break their natural dormancy.
- Mix the seeds with moist sand or vermiculite in a plastic bag or airtight container.
- Place them in the refrigerator at a temperature of **2 to 5 °C** for **2 to 3 months**.
- Check regularly that the substrate remains slightly damp.

#### 3. **Soaking the seeds (optional)**:
- After stratification, you can soak the seeds in warm water for **24 hours** to further stimulate germination.

#### 4. **Sowing period**:
- Sow the seeds in spring, after the cold stratification period, when temperatures are favorable.

#### 5. **Substrate preparation**:
- Use a mixture of seed starting soil with equal parts sand or perlite for good drainage.
- Fill your pots or seed trays with this mixture.

#### 6. **Sowing the seeds**:
- Place the seeds on the surface or sow them at a depth of **5 to 10 mm**.
- Cover them lightly with a thin layer of sieved substrate or sand.
- Press lightly to ensure good contact between the seeds and the substrate.

#### 7. **Watering**:
- Gently moisten the substrate with a spray bottle or a watering can at low flow.
- Maintain constant humidity without soaking the substrate.

#### 8. **Germination conditions**:
- Place the pots in a bright place, but away from direct sunlight.
- The ideal temperature for germination is **15 to 20 °C**.
- Germination can take **1 to 3 months**, sometimes longer, depending on conditions.

#### 9. **Replanting**:
- When the seedlings reach **5 to 10 cm** in height and develop several leaves, transplant them into individual pots.
- Use a similar substrate and continue to grow them in a bright but protected place.

#### 10. **Final planting**:
- Transplant young plants into open ground or large pots from their second year, when they are well established.
- Provide support (trellis, pergola) to allow them to climb.

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### Tips for growing:

- **Exposure**: **Akebia trifoliata** prefers a sunny to partially shaded exposure.
- **Soil**: This plant grows well in rich, humus-rich, well-drained soil.
- **Watering**: Water regularly during initial growth. Once established, it tolerates moderate drought.
- **Hardiness**: **Akebia trifoliata** is hardy down to around **-15°C**.
- **Interview** :
- Prune lightly to control growth and maintain a harmonious shape.
- Fertilize lightly in spring to promote vigorous growth.

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With these steps you will be able to grow **Akebia trifoliata**, an elegant and productive climbing plant that will bring an exotic touch and tasty fruits to your garden. 🌿✨