Johnny Butterflyseed is always developing and improving a simple, reliable, and repeatable germination protocol for testing Larval Host, Nectar, and Shelter Plant Seeds. This makes it easy to repeat for consistency and will allow anyone to follow the exact same protocol, and get what should be the same results.
Materials Needed:
- Seed Tray
- Filter paper or seed germination paper
- Spray bottle with distilled water
- Tweezers
- Temperature-controlled incubator or germination chamber (optional)
- Plastic wrap or lids for trays/Petri dishes
- Labels and markers
- Notebook or spreadsheet for recording data
Procedure:
- Labeling: Clearly label each seed tray or Petri dish with the seed type and date.
- Preparation: Line each seed tray or Petri dish with filter paper or germination paper.
- Seed Placement: Using tweezers or forceps, carefully place a specific number of seeds (e.g., 25 or 50 for easy percentage calculation) evenly spaced on the paper.
- Moistening: Lightly mist the seeds and paper with distilled water using a spray bottle. The paper should be moist but not waterlogged.
- Cover and Seal: Cover the seed trays or Petri dishes with their respective lids or plastic wrap to maintain humidity.
- Temperature Control: Place the trays in a temperature-controlled environment. A consistent temperature of 20-25°C (68-77°F) is generally suitable for a wide range of seeds.
- Observation: Check the seeds daily for signs of germination, such as radicle (root) emergence. Keep the paper moist by lightly misting as needed.
- Recording: Record the number of seeds that have germinated each day.
- Completion: After a set period (often 7-14 days depending on the seed type), calculate the germination rate by dividing the number of seeds that have germinated by the total number of seeds tested, then multiply by 100 to get a percentage.
- Documentation: Maintain thorough records for each test, including any observations about mold, inconsistent growth, or other issues.
By following this protocol, Johnny Butterflyseed can obtain a reliable and repeatable measure of seed germination rates, allowing for quality control and accurate information for customers… one day at a time!
Larval Host Plant Seeds
“Butterfly Seeds” encompass both butterfly eggs and seeds for butterfly Larval Host Plants. Each butterfly species’ caterpillar (larva) requires specific Host Plants for nourishment and development. Without these Larval Host Plants, the butterflies cannot live. For example, Monarch Butterflies need Milkweed Plants and Black Swallowtails need plants from the Carrot family to survive and grow.