We suspend regular sales operations during the colder months here in South Texas and move our plants into greenhouses. However, we are offering something very special now that will not be found elsewhere (a tiny chance to own a one-of-a-kind varietal produced by mutagenesis).
We have a good number of Agave maculata seeds and started plants (4” pots) that have been exposed to high-intensity X-rays with the hope of affecting mutagenesis and creating a variation (a favorable mutation). There are three batches. The first batch received 5 grays, the second one received 12 grays, and the third received 20 grays. The seeds are fresh (2024), and germination rates have been around 80%. They do not require stratification. They sprout well in plain tap water, seed-starter soil, and Oasis Cubes. I have not tried Rockwool, but that should work just fine.
Here’s the deal. I have no idea what the outcome will be. Suppose you buy either the seeds or the started plants. They may swivel up and die, be mutated in some ugly way that renders them useless, grow completely normal (you would still have a lovely plant), or be a “new-to-the-world” high-value specimen ready for mass production in a tissue culture lab. It may take two years before you know the answer. Please realize that the odds are against that last outcome. I cannot promise you anything, not even that they will survive. What else are you doing for fun?
You may ask if this is legal. I have copied the regulation from the USDA-APHIS below.
Plants developed through mutagenesis are typically not classified as genetically engineered (GE) and are generally not regulated by the USDA under its biotechnology regulations unless they involve plant pests or noxious weeds.
Note: The SI unit “gray” has replaced the older “rad” designation. 1 Gy = 1 Joule/kilogram = 100 rad. I’ll ensure you have all three radiation levels if you buy at least three seeds or plants.
We are selling the started plants in 4” pots for $23 each (free shipping) and the seeds for $1 per seed, also free shipping. Please order at least ten seeds. Our preferred payment method is with Zelle to my email address (benson.farm@gmail.com). If that does not work for you, contact us, and we’ll decide on another payment method.
I’m happy to answer your questions. Robert Benson