Propagating nepenthes (pitcher plants) from seeds is very time-consuming and not recommended for inexperienced gardeners. Not only is it difficult to obtain viable fresh seeds. The sowing itself also presents the breeder with many challenges. Tips for propagating Nepenthes from seed.
Only the male flowers of the Nepenthes form seeds
Where do you get fresh seeds from?
A big problem is getting fresh seeds for Nepenthes. The plant produces both female and male flowers. The male flowers are characterized by an unpleasant odor that attracts insects. Three-fold seed capsules develop from the flowers, in which up to 500 very fine seeds ripen.
If the pitcher plant is grown indoors, the flowers, which bloom from March to September, must be self-pollinated. Upland pitcher plants can be left outside in the summer to be pollinated by bees, beetles, and other insects. This is not advisable for lowland strains.
You can also purchase Nepenthes seeds from specialist retailers. However, only fresh seeds germinate, so propagation from seeds often fails due to the age of the seeds.
How is Nepenthes seed sown?
Every hobby grower has his own preferences here. Various materials can serve as a basis:
- peat
- cellulose
- Peat Moss (Sphagnum)
- coconut hum
The seeds are spread as thinly as possible and are not covered with substrate.
In order to keep the humidity constant, it makes sense to cover the seed pots with transparent plastic film. The foil must be aired from time to time so that the seeds do not become moldy.
Prick after emergence
It can take months for the seeds to germinate. It is important that they never dry out completely and are nice and warm.
As soon as the first seedlings appear, prick them out and leave only the strongest. Do not wait too long before planting, especially if you have sown on pulp.
The roots of Nepenthes seedlings are very tender. When removing them from the growing medium, they break off easily. Therefore, plant in carnivore soil as long as the roots can still be easily removed from the cultivation container.
tips
Nepenthes is an endangered species almost everywhere in the world and is under protection. If you buy plants or seeds abroad, be sure to only order cultivated seeds or crops. Otherwise you may be liable to prosecution.