Question
I know that many types of seed can be "water tested" to determine vaibility, that is if the seeds that are being tested float in a container they are not viable and the embryo is dead. If the seed sinks to the bottom of the container, it is viable and they embryo is much alive.

My question to you is...is "water testing" an accurate method to test viabilty and germination for Sarracenia seeds? Have you guys ever used this method on your own seeds??

Answer
Hi Derick,

We've never tested this with Sarracenia, but it would be a great tool.  I've noticed anecdotally from vegetable seeds this seems to work.  

I would say give it a try and report back.  I'll try it also this winter since we are going to be planting hundreds of Sarracenia seeds.

If this method is reliable, it would have saved me lots of headaches last year.  I planted several hundred seeds and had about a 1% germination.  Many of the seeds were old, and not stored under refrigeration.  I know that if Sarracenia seed is stored properly they can remain viable for up to 7 years.  Many hardy sundews are the same way.

Good Growing!

Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
http://www.cobraplant.com