Question 1

Can these plants really be grown in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Yes, although some varieties need a little more care than ordinary garden plants. Seeds are usually started indoors or under cover, and young plants should be protected from cold, heavy rain and frost. Many of these plants are particularly well suited to pots, allowing them to be moved into a sheltered position during winter.

Question 2

What is a SmokeStart Disc, and why is it included?

Accepted Answer

Many South African plants naturally respond to chemicals released by smoke after a bushfire. The SmokeStart Disc is soaked in smoke infused water to create a gentle smoke-water treatment, helping to trigger germination in seeds that may otherwise remain dormant.

Question 3

Do all of your seeds need smoke treatment?

Accepted Answer

No. Smoke treatment is mainly used for certain South African species, including many proteas. Where it is needed, a portion of a Smoke Germination Disc and full instructions will be included with your seeds. 
Bird of Paradise seeds do not require smoke treatment.

Question 4

What is the difference between SeedStart Smoke Discs and SeedStart Smoke Water?

Accepted Answer

Both products provide the smoke treatment used to help prepare suitable smoke-responsive seeds before sowing — the main difference is convenience and the number of seeds you want to treat.
SeedStart Smoke Discs are ideal for smaller batches. Simply soak the disc in water, add your seeds and leave them in the smoke solution for up to 24 hours before sowing.
SeedStart Smoke Water is designed for larger batches. The 100ml bottle can treat up to 200 seeds and is ready to use — do not dilute it. Simply use enough Smoke Water to ensure the seeds are covered during treatment, do not reuse the water once you have soaked your seeds. 
If you are sowing a small number of seeds, choose a disc. If you regularly grow larger batches, Smoke Water offers the most economical option.

Question 5

Which SeedStart Smoke Disc should I choose, and how many do I need?

Accepted Answer

Choose your SeedStart disc according to the number of seeds you would like to treat.SeedStart Small DiscTreats up to 10 seeds — ideal for a single packet or small sowing.SeedStart Large DiscTreats up to 50 seeds — ideal when preparing a larger batch at one time.
SeedStart Small Disc MultipacksEach disc treats up to 10 seeds, so:5 discs treat up to 50 seeds10 discs treat up to 100 seeds20 discs treat up to 200 seeds50 discs treat up to 500 seeds
You do not need to use all of your discs at once. Keep the unused discs stored dry until you are ready for your next batch.
As a simple guide: one small disc for every 10 seeds, or choose the larger disc quantity when you want to treat up to 50 seeds together.
Smoke treatment can support germination in suitable smoke-responsive species, but germination cannot be guaranteed and will also depend on seed viability, species and growing conditions.

Question 6

What soil should I use?

Accepted Answer

Proteas need a very free-draining, low-nutrient growing mixture and are particularly sensitive to high levels of phosphorus. A mixture containing ericaceous compost, perlite, horticultural grit or coarse sand is usually suitable. Other varieties, such as Bird of Paradise, prefer a richer but still well-draining compost. Specific guidance is included with every variety.

Question 7

Where do our seeds come from?

Accepted Answer

Our seeds are carefully sourced from specialist seed suppliers in South Africa who understand the plants, their natural habitats and the correct methods of harvesting and storing them.

Question 8

Where are the seeds packaged?

Accepted Answer

Every order is carefully counted, packed and prepared by hand in the UK by The Seed Story. We also create UK-specific growing instructions to help customers give their seeds the best possible start.

Question 9

How long will the seeds take to germinate?

Accepted Answer

Germination times vary considerably between varieties. Some may germinate within a few weeks, while others can take several months. Unusual seeds often work to their own timetable, so patience, consistent moisture and the correct temperature are important.

Question 10

What is included with my seeds?

Accepted Answer

The contents depend on the product selected. Individual seed packets include the stated number of seeds, growing instructions and smoke treatment where required. Our growing boxes also include coir plugs, plant labels and the additional materials needed to begin your growing story.

Question 11

Do you guarantee that every seed will germinate?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, no seed seller can guarantee germination because results are affected by temperature, moisture, compost, storage and growing conditions. We source good-quality seeds and provide detailed guidance, but germination rates can naturally vary.

Question 12

When is the best time to sow my seeds?

Accepted Answer

Most varieties can be started indoors throughout the year if you can provide warmth and good light. However, spring and early autumn are often particularly suitable because temperatures are easier to manage.

Question 13

Are these seeds suitable for beginners?

Accepted Answer

Some are easier than others, but you do not need to be an expert. Each variety includes clear instructions, practical tips and information specific to growing in the UK. 
The most important ingredients are patience, careful watering and a willingness to learn.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions