Venus Flytrap Propagation
The Venus flytrap (Dionaea muscipula) is a well-known, carnivorous plant that gleams nutrients from insects it traps in its specialized leaves. There are several possible propagation methods for Venus flytraps. Sexual propagation results in genetically new plants, while any of the multiple vegetative reproduction methods result in plants genetically identical to the parent plant. Vegetative propagation produces mature plants faster than sexual reproduction. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
-
Sexual Propagation
-
Venus flytraps sexually propagate if the flower is pollinated and seeds successfully germinate. The Venus flytrap is self-pollinating but generally produces more germinating seeds if cross-pollinated. If insects are unable to access the plant and perform the pollination, rub two plants with receptive pistils together or touch a cotton swab to anthers, and then touch it to the stigma. After fertilization, the flowers die. If pollination occurred, there will be a pod containing shiny, black seeds, each about 1.5 mm long. The seeds require no stratification, so sow them immediately for best results. Sow the seeds on the surface of a peat moss mixture. Maintain a high-humidity environment with a temperature between 70 and 85 degrees. Seeds generally germinate within 15 to 30 days but can take much longer. These slow-growing plants take several years to reach maturity and require periods of dormancy.
Dividing Spreading Plants
-
Venus flytraps naturally propagate by developing multiple growth points within a rosette. Leaves appear crowded and growing out of multiple centers. Do not immediately divide the plant, as the new rosette must have its own root system or it dies or struggles. Wait until the spring when the flytrap will be repotted and divide the plants only if the new rosette has an adequate root system.
-
Leaf Pulling
-
Venus flytraps can propagate vegetatively by taking and rooting leaf pullings. Remove the flytrap from its growing medium and expose the rhizome. Examine the mass and locate a healthy leaf on the outermost part of the rhizome. Firmly pull the leaf downward to detach it while taking as much of the rhizome as possible with the leaf. Cut off the trap and pot the leaf in typical Venus flytrap soil. Keep the leaf moist and provide at least 13 hours of light daily. It may take up to two months for new growth to emerge.
Flower Stalks
-
Flytraps can propagate utilizing flower stalks as leaf pullings are used. Cut the flower stalk as close to the plant as possible and stick the base of the stalk in the ground. The stalk may send out plantlets where it is in contact with the soil.
-
References
- Photo Credit venus image by Darian Dauterich from Fotolia.com
