hard to germinate datura seeds. Tried different pre-treatments and not sure if I did more harm than good

Question

As noted, I pre-soaked the seeds for 24 hrs. Before that, I did my own version of scarification. Emery board was too cumbersome for me. Poked some seed coats with a needle but that didn’t seem to work that well. Tried a nail clipper on the other datura seeds; clipped the wider portion of the seed, what I figure is away from the embryo. After all of this, I’ve started the seeds on moist paper towels, on a heat mat, enclosed in clear topped plastic trays. I’m worried that I could have mangled the seeds to death with the clipper. Should I expect results or do I need to start all over ? To me, this flower is a real hassle to get started. I’d sure appreciate your thoughts on all of this and what I may expect. Or is it just a crap shoot ? Thanks

Answer 1

Thank you for sending us your gardening question. You'll probably only know whether you've gone too far if the seeds don't sprout. Give them a little time,
soak for a bit in warm water or just get them in the soil. You should know soon enough.

Here's our article on nicking plant seeds:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/propagation/seeds/nicking-plant-seeds.htm

and another on care for the Datura:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/datura/growing-datura-trumpet-flower.htm