Date: Wed, 4 Oct 2000 08:32:52 -0700 (PDT) From: Barry Meyers-Rice <bamrice@ucdavis.edu> To: cp@opus.hpl.hp.com Message-Id: <aabcdefg2929$foo@default> Subject: Ibicella
> 1) Do you take any steps to "help" germination, as suggested in The Savage
> Garden?
No. The seeds I donated to the seedbank germinate quite readily, because
of multiple generations of selecting in cultivation. However, note that
the seeds do not germinate until the soil gets warm. Maybe try bottom
heat. I noticed that when it would get warm outside (i.e. 32 C, 90 F) the
seeds would germinate.
> 2) What time of year do you sow the seeds? Should I do it now, or wait until
> Spring?
If you can provide very high light, do it now. Otherwise wait for the
spring. This plant requires a long season to set fruit, so you'll want to
get a head start on the growing season unless you live in a warm
climate. Be VERY careful about transplanting. Move soil balls, not
plants---root damage stunts the plant for the season.
> 3) If I should wait, should I keep the seeds in the refrigerator until then?
Up to you. If you can provide a bright place, you could sow them now I
suppose.
> 4) Is any stratification necessary?
No.
> 5) You say "rich sandy soil". Would a mix of 1/2 standard potting soil from
> the local nursery, and 1/2 sand be good? Anything better?
Treat them like tomato plants. Really. They like nice potting soil. I'd
try the mix, as you suggested, and also try regular potting soil for
others. Plant the seeds in (ideally) 5 gallon pails, and don't transplant
them ever.
Cheers
Barry
------------------------
Dr. Barry A. Meyers-Rice
Carnivorous Plant Newsletter
Conservation Coeditor
barry@carnivorousplants.org
http://www.carnivorousplants.org
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