Quick answer: Press China doll seeds onto moist mix and barely cover them, keep them under a dome at 70–80°F in bright indirect light, and expect sprouts in 1–3 weeks.

Learning how to grow from seed? Head over to our planting guide!

Radermachera Sinica 'China Doll' Plant Seeds - Plantflix

details

Difficulty Beginner
Germination 1–3 weeks
Temperature 70–80°F
Depth Barely cover
Seed prep (none needed!)
Method Greenhouse
Time to maturity 6-12 months
Light Part Sun / Grow Lights
Pet-friendly Yes
china doll seeds

instructions

  1. Moisten the soil and add to a 12-cavity mini greenhouse.
  2. Sow shallow. Press 2–3 flat seeds per cell onto the surface and barely cover.
  3. Dome on at 70–80°F in bright indirect light.
  4. Keep moist but not soggy.
  5. Thin and uncover once seedlings have true leaves.
Radermachera Sinica 'China Doll' Plant Seeds - Plantflix

things to know

  • Glossy and lacy: shiny, fern-like leaflets on a small tree.
  • Dislikes change: it may drop leaves after a move. It recovers.
  • Pick a planter that holds moisture: plastic, rice hull or ceramic, with a dome. Skip terra cotta, peat pots, coco coir pots and egg cartons. They wick water away from the seed.
  • New to seeds? Start with our seed prep guide and planting guide.
grow your own!

plant care tips

  • Light: bright indirect light or a grow light.
  • Water: keep lightly moist; don't let it dry out fully.
  • Humidity: likes moderate humidity.
  • Pruning: pinch tips to keep it bushy.
try them out!

faqs

How long do China doll plant seeds take to sprout?

Usually 1–3 weeks.

Why is my China doll plant dropping leaves?

Usually a move, a draft or drying out.

Are China Doll Plants pet-safe?

It's non-toxic to cats and dogs!

these are key aspects of your setup

check your setup!

  • 💡light: is your setup away from direct sun? these seeds should stay in indirect or filtered light, or better yet, under grow lights.
  • 💧moisture: does the soil feel very moist to the touch?
  • 🌡️temperature: is the setup away from direct sun, open windows, or heat vents? make sure it stays consistently between 70F-90F (use a heat mat if the temperature falls under 70F)
  • ☁️humidity: do you see condensation on the humidity dome? if not, make sure the dome is fully sealed, the setup is warm enough, and there's enough moisture in the soil.
  • 💚care: leave the dome on and only open it once a week to add water.
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