Super-Saturated Germination Experiment

[DrWurm]

Earlier today, I discovered that my D. indica "Green" seeds seem to germinate happily even when completely or partially submerged in water. So I figured I would try out a somewhat different germination technique. For this, I use pure peat in a container with drainage holes. I put that container in a slightly larger container filled with distilled water. The water line ends up being very close to the level of the peat. I planted precisely 40 seeds, and will examine germination rate, as well as long term success or failure. Depending on the success of this experiment, I may go on to attempt germination with other species.

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/drwurm/3695178957/" title="D. indica "Green" experiment day 1 by DrWurm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2525/3695178957_e76a651cc3.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="D. indica "Green" experiment day 1" /></a>

Here is the water level compared to the peat level
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/drwurm/3695990204/" title="D. indica "Green" experiment day 1 by DrWurm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3458/3695990204_c00716fb62.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="D. indica "Green" experiment day 1" /></a>

I placed the cup of peat around 6 inches under my T8 fixture. I will not be placing plastic wrap over the pot. I suspect that the water level will more than make up for any lack of humidity.
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/drwurm/3695181253/" title="D. indica "Green" experiment day 1 by DrWurm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2480/3695181253_f1c564999a.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="D. indica "Green" experiment day 1" /></a>

Jason

 

[Clue]

Sounds like fun! I guess this is the way to get rid of 2000 D. indica "Green" seeds.

 

[DrWurm]

11 days later we have first germination. I count 4 seedlings total.

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/drwurm/3730393120/" title="Drosera Indica Experiment: First Sprout by DrWurm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2672/3730393120_f6faea665d.jpg" width="500" height="382" alt="Drosera Indica Experiment: First Sprout" /></a>

Jason

 

[Rocketcaver]

Sounds like a good setup for leaf cuttings too.

 

[jimscott]

I love a good experiment!