Question
Hi Jacob and Jeff

I have a few questions about seeds and seedlings

I have a D. filiformis x intermedia and I seem to remember reading that they are sterile, is this true ???

I also have a D. rotundifolia x intermedia ,  is this sterile as well ?

How long can unstratified Sarracenia seeds remain viable if stored in the fridge? Would they last longer in the freezer ?

How long can stratified (still in the damp paper towel) Sarracenia seeds remain viable if stored in the fridge?  Would they last longer in the freezer ?

I have some Sarracenia seeds that I have stratified. Right now they are in my fridge in a damp paper towel (sprayed with fungicide). I would like to plant some and let the others dry out for storage ?is this something I can do or should I leave the unused seeds in the damp paper towel

I have a bunch of Sarracenia seedlings growing under lights. They are just getting their first tiny pitchers. I would like to put them outside, so I can start a new batch of seeds. Is it too early to do this, or should I just wait till the seedlings are a little larger ?

Thanks

Nicole
90 miles north of NYC  

Answer
Hi Nicole,

Yes, filiformis x intermedia is sterile and doesn't produce any seeds.  This seems to be true with nearly all sundew hybrids, including rotundifolia x intermedia.  In fact, I can't think of a sundew hybrid that produces seeds.  The only way to propagate sundew hybrids is to do it from leaf or root cuttings.

Once your Sarracenia seeds are stratified, they should be sown within a month.  If that's not possible, you can store the seeds in your refrigerator for up to a year.  Avoid putting it in your freezer.  Stratified seeds don't have the same chemical protection against freezes as non-stratified seeds do.

If you need space under your lights, you can place your seedlings outdoors in partial or dappled sunlight.  Morning sun is best.  Make sure the soil is always moist.

Good growing!
Jacob Farin