Perlite vs perlite/peat moss vs sphagnum moss for seed germination

[bgifford]

Hey there!

I just got some Butia capitata and some Jubea chilensis seeds and was wondering what would be the best medium for those to germinate in since these take a while to often germinate from what I have gathered.

I just wanted to see what others have used for successful germination of those two types. And would you switch out the media after a while to keep fungus growth or mold in check?

As always, thank you for the help.

 

Brian

[Silas_Sancona]

1 hour ago, bgifford said:

Hey there!

I just got some Butia capitata and some Jubea chilensis seeds and was wondering what would be the best medium for those to germinate in since these take a while to often germinate from what I have gathered.

I just wanted to see what others have used for successful germination of those two types. And would you switch out the media after a while to keep fungus growth or mold in check?

As always, thank you for the help.

 

Brian

I'd honestly use something like Pumice ..or even Turface MVP mixed w/ Pumice  over perlite if using it just as - is ( Say laying the seeds on top of a layer of it, in a plastic storage container -type germination set up  ..so you can easily monitor their germination ) .. 

Perlite has a tendency to float, so unless you're really careful when watering any seeds laying on top of it, the seeds would likely sink through it when water is applied. Avoid the stuff personally.

Peat Moss can decompose pretty quickly under really moist / warm conditions, which definitely can increase the potential for Fungal ..and/ or Bacterial - related issues.  Would look into using Coco peat ( Ground Coconut Husk ) instead.. Coconut Husk contains ..at least.. a few natural compounds that thwart / retard the establishment of such issues..

In pots, would put together a 30% Coco peat, 40% Pumice, 30% Turface MVP kind of soil mix..  ..Can go say 10% higher on the Coco Peat content, but, you don't want to add too much ..since it too can stay pretty moist..  Pumice and Turface MVP content will assure that  the soil will drain off any excess moisture well / oxygen penetration through the soil mix is adequate for robust and healthy root development..