Moving Plants from Ziplock to Open Pots

[James H]

I was wondering at what size does everyone here start moving their plants from being totally covered, like in ziplock bags to more open community pots in a green house setting.

I jumped the gun on a pot of sundew, they were around 1/4-3/8" dia and took the pot out of the ziplock and placed it in a water tray and they all died off. They are all watered from the bottom only and with filtered water so I know that was not the cause.

I dont want it to happen again so I am looking for some advice.

 

[BigBella]

If you've been cultivating the plants in ziplock bags for any period of time, you've got to remember that the humidity is at a saturation point -- and that any "sudden" change is likely to be stressful. I generally move Nepenthes from bags when I see new leaves develop.

What I have done in the past, especially when rooting cuttings, is to slightly open their bags, keep them in a shaded environment, and open them over the course of a week . . .

 

[herenorthere]

They need a slow transition, as BB says. Those plants aren't prepared for the water demands of reduced humidity or for air currents and, possibly, stronger light. Many plants can make a pretty substantial transition in a week but, back when I used to deflask orchids fairly regularly, I took much longer than a week for the transition. Unless you're running a commercial operation, what's the rush?

 

[jimscott]

As above.... I keep plants covered in the transition, initially, and then uncover them during the day (re-cover at night) for a few days. After that I take the covering off permanently.

 

[James H]

Thanks guys I will take my time a bit more with the next round of seedlings.