Media for germination of Neps seeds

[fauzi]

Hi all,

I have tried this one new method (new for me that is ) using 100% perlite as media with water underneath the pot to keep the perlite moist all the time. The germination rate is not really that high - about 20-30% after about 2 months. Seeds started to germinate after about 40 days (N.sanguinea and N.maxima) Currently no side effect seen on the newly germinated Neps.

Maybe somebody else have tried this method and found out that it is not suitable and have ill-effect on the plant at later stage.

This is how I sowed the seeds on the perlite:





Any comments

Thanks

Fauzi

[rainforestguy]

I have used this method to root cuttings with better success, but I find this media to be too coarse and dry for seeds. I am still using old rotted coco bark (just for germination stage and then discarded after seedlings start to develop into sturdier plants), and some perlite/peat added. I also use wide open trays that get a lot of light and air circulation for best germination, hardening and ease of transplanting.
It won't be too long before you'll be swarmed with seedlings awaiting transplanting. Then its like a storm with plants growing rapidly and more and more seedlings emerging after you have removed most of the larger seedlings from a pot/tray.

M

[nepaholic]

I always use dead Sphagnum and in L/L temperatures with great results (for me) Germination is mostly after 12-14 days.

Jens

[strath76]

I am currently splitting my seeds between Sphagnum moss (non living) and the mix of 50:50 peat sand. I haven't had any issues with this to date, although I can see that if the sphagnum takes off it could over run the seeds/seedlings.

[victoria]

I am currently using a coco/perlite mixture and am very pleased with the results so far, this is also the mix I use for rooting cuttings as well as growing my Neps. I have heard of people using straight vermiculite for seeds but have not tried this method myself.
Please keep us updated on the progress of these seedlings.
Victoria