How to Harvest and Store Majesty Palm Seeds

by

The Majesty Palm (Ravenea rivularis) is a popular indoor and outdoor plant known for its elegant, feather-like fronds. Propagating this palm through seeds can be a rewarding process, but it requires proper harvesting and storage techniques to ensure successful germination.

Harvesting Majesty Palm Seeds

Harvesting seeds from a Majesty Palm involves waiting for the fruit to mature fully. The seeds develop inside the fruit, which appears as a cluster of small, round, orange or yellow berries on the plant. The best time to harvest is when the berries have turned their mature color and are soft to the touch.

To harvest the seeds:

  • Wear gloves to handle the berries safely.
  • Use scissors or pruning shears to carefully cut the berry clusters from the plant.
  • Place the harvested berries in a paper bag or container for ripening if they are not fully mature.
  • Allow the berries to fully ripen at room temperature for about 1-2 weeks, during which they will soften and turn a darker color.

Extracting Seeds from Berries

Once the berries are ripe, extract the seeds by:

  • Cut open the berries with a sharp knife or scissors.
  • Gently squeeze or scoop out the seeds from the fruit pulp.
  • Rinse the seeds thoroughly under cool water to remove any remaining fruit flesh.
  • Discard any damaged or moldy seeds.

Preparing Seeds for Storage

Before storing, it’s important to dry the seeds to prevent mold and decay. Spread the seeds in a single layer on a paper towel or a mesh screen in a well-ventilated area. Allow them to air dry for 24-48 hours until completely dry.

Storing Majesty Palm Seeds

Proper storage extends the viability of the seeds until you are ready to plant. Follow these steps:

  • Place the dried seeds in an airtight container, such as a glass jar or a sealed plastic bag.
  • Label the container with the date of collection and seed type.
  • Store the container in a cool, dark, and dry place, ideally between 40-50°F (4-10°C).
  • Check periodically for any signs of mold or moisture, and ensure the seeds remain dry.

Germinating Majesty Palm Seeds

When ready to plant, soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat. Then, plant the seeds in well-draining soil, about 1 inch deep. Keep the soil moist and place the container in a warm, bright location. Germination can take several weeks to months, so patience is key.