Question
Hi, I have recently purchased Drosera Capensis broad leaf seeds.  I am new to
growing plants.  I live in New York City.  I have purchased a very small
terrarium (9x6x8; http://www.amazon.com/the-Garden-and-More-HP65-1/
dp/B0007YEN3E).  I have read your care sheet on your website.  Do you think
that if I use the small terrarium, I will be successful in growing my cape
sundew?  How many seeds should I plant?  Should I use a layer of perlite on
the bottom and moss on the top?  I am planning on purchasing a fluorescent
bulb.  Thank you!

Answer
Hi Charlotte,

Cape sundew seeds are one of the easiest seeds to germinate.  The main issue for them is warmth.  It's OK to use a terarrium to germinate them, but you'll need to be careful of fungal infection.  Fungus can quickly wipe out a crop of seedlings.  For this reason, we suggest that first-time growers not use a terrarium.  Your seeds will germinate and grow just fine without one.

Use a simple mix of 1 part peat moss and 1 part perlite.  Sprinkle your seeds over the soil and do what you can to space them apart.  The seeds are very tiny, so don't worry if they end up in a clump.  If they do, just spread them out with your finger.

Avoid covering them up with the soil.  Let them rest right on the soil top.  Keep the soil moist at all times.  You can do this by setting your pot in a dish of water.  Keep the water level no higher than half way up the pot.  Use distilled water if your tap water is high in minerals.

Set your seeds in a very bright windowsill, such as a south or west window.  Make sure the ambient temperature is at least 75癋.  At this temperature, you will see germination within 3 weeks.  If the temperature is a bit cooler, it may take an additional 2 weeks.

If you still want to use a terrarium, make sure to spray the soil surface with a sulfur-based fungicide.  Follow the directions on the bottle.  You will also need to use artificial lights since direct sunlight on your terrarium will cause it to overheat and kill your seedlings.  Use a compact fluorescent bulb that is at least 40 watts (actual, not equivalent).  Light isn't an issue right after sowing your seeds, but it is an issue as soon as the seeds germinate and your sundews start to grow.  Keep the light about 6 inches above the soil, and keep it on for 14 hours per day.

Good growing!
Jacob Farin