Seed Care
There are two species of carnivorous plant seeds within this seed kit, the Venus Flytrap and the Cape Sundew, so keep separate so that identification of the seed is not lost. The two packets of seed require a similar approach to germination.
To ensure maximum viability, the seeds have been stored at a temperature of 5ºÇ. If you do not intend to sow the seeds for weeks, or even months – it is strongly advised to place the seed packets inside your refrigerator (not the freezer). Do not allow the seeds to freeze. The seeds are incredibly tiny and the sundew in particular can almost appear like a fine dust. So take extra caution when opening the seed packets so as not to lose any.
Sowing the Seeds
Place a soil disc(s) into a bowl of rain water or distilled water. Do NOT use tap water. Allow the disc to fully absorb the water. After 1 hour, remove the disc and allow to drain. Replace the water with a fresh batch of rain or distilled water and soak again for one more hour. Allow to drain and then fill one of the pots with the soil. This process removes unwanted minerals that may be held within the soil disc. Gently loosen/roughen the surface of the soil.
Using great care, open the packets of seeds and dispense 4 or 5 seeds from each species of plant into their own pot. Do not cover the seeds with any additional soil but ensure contact has been made between the seeds and the soil surface. It is now a good time to label your pots for identification purposes. Use the supplied markers and insert into the soil.
Put the pot(s) within one of the supplied saucers and water. This is best done by adding water to the saucer and allowing the soil to it soak up. Each saucer can accommodate 2 pots. REMEMBER – TO USE ONLY DISTILLED OR RAIN WATER. It is also vital to ensure that the soil remains moist, but not waterlogged at all times. Covering the pot loosely with cling film, without touching the seeds, can aid water retention and warmth. This is recommended for faster germination and a less frequent need to water. Alternatively, place the pots and saucer into a clear sandwich box. This will aid warmth and humidity which is required for your seeds to germinate. Place on a warm and bright windowsill.
If conditions are ideal, germination often occurs within 2 to 3 weeks, but be patient – some seeds may take 3 or 4 months to germinate.
After Germination Care
Continue to ensure the soil of the plants is always moist. If multiple seedlings have germinated, carefully prick them out and put them into a small pot of their own. Leave the strongest looking seedling in place for the time being. If all the coir discs have all been used, it is highly recommended to use a specialist ‘carnivorous plant soil mix’ which is available from many online retailers.
After one year, repot them into larger, 7cm diameter pots using a specialist carnivorous plant soil mix. During the winter months it’s important to keep your Venus Flytrap in a cold, but bright location – such as a garage windowsill or greenhouse (not outside). Venus Flytraps require a period of winter dormancy and during this time, some leaves will turn black. Once the weather warms, your Venus Flytrap will spring back into life. This should be done from their 2nd winter of life, onwards.
You can purchase your Venus Flytrap Seed Kit here.
Good luck and happy fly catching!