Question
Jeff,

I have some Darlingtonia seedlings that are growing well in a bog pot in which they are growing in live sphagnum moss. My concern is the sphagnum moss is going to choke out my Darlingtonia seedlings before they have a chance to put on any significant growth. I suppose it would have been better to wait and transplanted the seedlings when they were a few years older...poor thinking on my part. What would you suggest to keep the sphagnum moss from choking out the Darlingtonia seedlings until they are more mature? Would it be feasible just to cut the moss back and keep it in check periodically??

Thank you,

Derick

Answer
Hi Derick,

Because the seedlings are so tiny, you probably do need to just trim the sphagnum, or push it down.  Just be very careful.  It will help to use small scissors, and use some close-up lenses while you do it.

The good news is that live sphagnum tends to be very good for carnivorous plants, including Darlingtonia, since it creates a very hospitable environment.  It keeps the media very acid, helps cool roots, and inhibits many pathogens.

Good Growing!

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