Expert: Christopher Littrell - 7/7/2010

Question
Hi, my Drosera Spatulata (mound) has thrown up 4-5 flower stalks. The tallest flower stalk's buds are just now opening. I have never dealt with Drosera seeds before, so I was wondering if you could give me a very shortened version on what to do? From my knowledge they self-pollinate, but how long do I wait until I collect the seeds? Just any general tips would be appreciated. Thanks

Answer
Hello Chris,

Basically, most carnivorous plant seed collection is similar. Wait for the flowers to open, then close, then wait for the seed pods to dry up and blacken. Once the actual flower scape begins to blacken and dry out down the stalk, it is time to clip it off and collect seeds. This could take a month or so, just be patient. Once you clip off the scape, place it on a white sheet of paper or in a white paper cup and shake or crush the seed pods until you see hundreds of tiny seeds collecting on your white surface. For tropical and sub-tropical sundews like Drosera spatulata, you can simply drop the seeds on the surface of a pot of sphagnum peat and perlite, always a good idea to have some finely granulated moss as a topsoil for seeds, and then barely sprinkle some moss over the seeds, not to any appreciable depth, but just a fine sprinkling to keep in moisture and keep off mold.

When hoping for pollination, you can help the process out some when the flowers open by tapping, shaking and blowing on the open flowers for a couple of minutes to move the pollen around. Keep the plants in strong light and keep them hydrated and ensure they get a few gnats or fruit flies to maximize seed production. Do not be discouraged if they do not produce seeds. Just look at the environment and modify it some until you have enough of what the plants need to ensure seed development. Drosera spatulata like warm, sunny environments and plenty of clean water.

Christopher