STRATIFICATION

COLD-TREATMENT FOR THOSE COOL GUYS

Stratification is a process whereby the seeds are exposed to cold and moisture to simulate the winter and stimulate the growth of seeds. Many people think stratification is simply exposing the seeds to cold - this is not the case. There is another clause -- the seeds have to be moist. The seeds should be sown as per normal onto peat and sand, and for temperate climates,  place the pots outside or in the garage through  winter. In Singapore, simply place the entire pot into a plastic bag, seal it up and place  it in the fridge for some time. It is suggested that you should spray a little dilute fungicide to prevent mould and fungus from attacking the seeds. What we normally do, to save on space, is to place the seeds in moist live sphagnum in small plastic bags instead of the whole pot - this works as well as the former way.

After 6-8 weeks, move the pots to a warm place - just beside your normal CPs will do.. Wait for 2 weeks or more for the shoots to sprout.

This method is applicable for Sarracenia, Darlingtonia, tuberous droseras and temperate Pinguiculas. For the former 2 genera, this method is *essential* for a high germination, regardless of the freshness of the seeds.

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