Question
I recently purchased some Sago Palm seeds - I live in Connecticut, so I'm assuming they will have to be container plants...? Also, I was wondering how long they take to grow into a worthwhile plant?
I also want to try to grow my own New Zealand Impatients (I think that's the name) ( the big ones) How or can I get seeds from my existing plants?  And if I can, when would I need to collect and start them so they will be ready for use in late May 2004?
Thanks : )

Answer
Hi Lori,
Thanx for your question.  I apologize for taking so long to answer your question.  I believe the plant you refer to as New Zealand impatients is really New Guinea Impatiens.  The foliage is elongated and dark purple to dark green and flowers are orange, red or bright pink.  Impatiens seeds are difficult to identify and easily lost to the elements once the blossom is spent.  Additionally, all impatiens purchased at the store will bear seed that will not come true to the parent plant because of hybridization.  You can purchase New Guinea impatiens seeds from www.veseys.com.  Impatiens seeds can get pricey.  Veseys has them 10 seeds for $3.70.  If you have New Guinea impatiens plants you can dig them up and pot them before the first frost and bring them indoors for the winter.  Another way to propagate them is to make tip cuttings (the top 4 inches of a stem).  Remove all but the top crown of foliage carefully.  Plant the cuttings in a soil less mix that is kept moist but not soggy and no higher than 75 degrees, no lower than 70 degrees F.  Put them in diffused sunlight not direct sunlight.  Rooting should take place in a few weeks.  Sago palm seeds can take a long time to germinate.  First, soak the large seeds an a container of hot water for 24-48 hours.  Plant them twice as deep as their thickness in rich potting soil and seal in a clear plastic baggie.  Keep at 75 F no cooler.  I had one germinate in 1 month and the rest over a 6 month period.  Some references say it can take up to a year but mine all germinated within 1-6 months.  Growth is very, very slow as with most palms.  A one year old plant will only have maybe 4 fronds and fit very well in a 6 inch pot.  You can use it as a house plant and put it out on the patio in the summer time.  I hope this helps.
Tom