Question
I have many sarracenia seedlings growing in my other plant pots that came from last seasons seed. They are unknown crosses of complex hybrids and it would be interesting to see how they turn out, but it takes several years for them to grow. Is it possible to grow seedlings under conditions used for tissue culture to accelerate their growth? Or are there other ways to accelerate seedling growth?

Answer
Hi Adam,

Here's a good article on this subject:  http://www.carnivorousplants.org/howto/Propagation/SarraceniaSeed.php

I've used Osmocote with good results.  Just be sure to top water regularly to not let too much fertilizer accumulate.  Also, many growers claim to be able to keep seedlings on a 24 hour light cycle under fluorescent lights for the first two years shortening maturation time dramatically.  I've not personally tried this, but I've seen some impressive pictures.  If you're not a member yet, this forum has great people and information:  http://sarracenia.proboards.com/

Good Growing!

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