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1
Using a kitchen knife, carefully cut the kumquat in two.
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2
You don't want to damage any of the seeds you are after.
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3
Gently push in the pulp with your thumb exposing the seeds.
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4
There are usually 4 seeds per kumquat, but I only found 2 seeds in this one worth using.
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5
The other 2 were too small and immature.
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6
Wipe off the slick coating on the seeds as much as you can and let them dry for 20 minutes so they are easier too handle in the next step.
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7
In this next step, you will be removing the seeds protective shell.
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8
Find the nubby protrusion on the seed and make an incision cutting it in 2 using the X-acto knife.
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9
(Slice only this nub, not the entire seed.)
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10
Using the split in the seed, gently peel away the shell from the seed.
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11
The actual seed inside is green and if you look closely, you can see what is going to be the first leaf.
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12
Do this process for all the seeds you are going to germinate.
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13
Place the seeds on folded paper towels.
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14
Place more folded paper towels on top.
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15
Place in a zip lock bag.
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16
Add enough water to moisten the paper towels, seal the bag, and place in a warm, out of the way place.
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17
You will need to replace the paper towels and water every 3 days.
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18
Day 3 - Not much going on yet.
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19
Change paper towels and water.
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20
Day 6 - Seeds beginning to open up and sprouts forming.
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21
Change paper towels and water.
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22
Day 9 - yay!
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23
We have germination.
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24
I think I am going to let these go another 3 days and then plant them in some soil.
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25
Change the paper towels and water.
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26
Day 12 - time to move the seedlings to some loose, sandy soil.
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27
UPDATE 01.31.15: The seedlings are coming along nicely.
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28
I added a little root stimulator to their watering.
