Stratifying Seeds of Temperate Sarracenia and Sundews

Cold Stratification: The Key to Germinating North American Carnivorous Plant Seeds

Seeds of temperate Sarracenia and sundews (Drosera rotundifolia, D. anglica, etc.) require a cold, damp period to break dormancy. Tropical/subtropical sundews like D. capensis do not.

Simple Stratification Method

1. Place seeds on a damp paper towel.
2. Seal in a plastic bag.
3. Refrigerate (not freeze) for 4 weeks.
4. After stratification, surface‑sow on a 1:1 peat/perlite mix under bright light.

Species‑Specific Notes

• Sarracenia: All species and hybrids need 4‑week stratification.
• Temperate Drosera: D. rotundifolia, D. anglica, D. intermedia—stratify same as Sarracenia.
• Subtropical Drosera: D. capensis, D. spatulata, D. binata—sow fresh, no cold period needed.

Keep stratification media moist but not soggy. Label bags with date and species.