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Gardeners’ Forum: “Datura”

• Datura

  Posted by Connie on Monday, December 31, 2001 3:24 PM AST

  I had no success last year starting Datura seeds under my grow lites. Only 3 seeds germinated & they didn't thrive in the sunny bed I planted them in. The year before someone had given me beautiful seedlings that bloomed gloriously til frost in that same bed. Any ideas what went wrong?

  • re: Datura

    Posted by Gayle on Saturday, January 26, 2002 11:07 AM AST

    I grew some of these datura's last year and they were gorgeous. I know that datura are poisonous but heard that these are VERY poisonous and you could become gravely ill if you pricked yourself with a spine on the seed pods. I am wondering if this is true?

  • re: Datura

    Posted by Gail on Saturday, January 26, 2002 7:18 PM AST

    I have been groeing Datura for years and have pricked myself many times,but I do try to make sure I have gloves on just for safety. As as I know the only way these pods and seeds are poison is if they are injested.We did have 3 teens that picked the pods and ate them to get high.They ended up in emergency one almost died.The city pulled every plant out the next day in the city.I also know that they tried to ban Datura in Canada several years ago,but there was a real uproar. We have only been able to order the seeds over the oast few years.

  • re: Datura

    Posted by Gail on Saturday, January 26, 2002 7:28 PM AST

    Hi Connie Did you make sure you froze your seeds for 24 hours before soaking for 24 hours.After I soak mine I roll them in damp paper towel rolled in plastic in my plant room.This way only the good seeds will germinate.They should be started indoors now as they are very slow to get going. I usually have to transplant them twice into bigger pots before they get planted ouside,I also keep pinching them from the bottm so they get very bushy and sturdy.My favourite one is ballerina(white)it is beauitful and so fragrant. I have grown evey variety and this is the nicest as far as I am concerned. hope this helps Gail

  • re: Datura

    Posted by Lois on Tuesday, January 29, 2002 11:37 AM AST

    I would advise you to use bottom heat to germinate the datura seed. Some extra warmth may work. I believe the plant will only harm you if you ingest it, like morning glories or monkshood. I deadhead them all summer without any gloves, but I would handle them with caution.