I have a seed pod (not ready yet) need help

[The Orchid Boy]

When sterilizing with bleach, is any brand ok? I have a brand called Regular Sno-ee Bleach.

[NatalieS]

The link Camille was referring to is here:

http://www.orchidboard.com/community...y-seeding.html

I've watched those videos as well and have used the microwave sterilisation method twice now with excellent results. Only contamination I got was from not sealing one of the containers properly afterwards.

I don't think it matters which bleach you use. My personal preference is to use Milton.

[The Orchid Boy]

Do you replate in those containers? If so how do you provide air with out getting contamination?

Should I wait till the seed pod dries or do green pod? It's a potinara and the seed pod is large and has ridges. When is the seed completely mature? How can I tell if it's ready to do by green pod?

[NatalieS]

I haven't gotten to the point of replating yet but it should be the same procedure, just with the replating medium instead of the germinating one. So, yes, you should be able to use the same type of plastic containers for replating.

I think there are varying opinions on whether or not gaseous exchange is necessary. I have tried this by making a small hole in the lid and putting one of those little, round, water-resistant, plasters over the hole. I didn't get any contamination in the flasks I did this to, but I also don't know if it did anything at all. I would just experiment. Maybe do some flasks with and some without and see if there is any difference in the growth.

As for the questions about the pod, I have absolutely no experience yet with working with pods so maybe someone else can chime in here.

[The Orchid Boy]

Exactly what containers did you use? I was thinking about Tupperwear containers. And you only totally seal the containers after the media has cooled in a sterile place right? I just want everything to go as smoothly as possible. All of the replies have helped. Thanks!

[NatalieS]

Originally Posted by The Orchid Boy

Exactly what containers did you use? I was thinking about Tupperwear containers. And you only totally seal the containers after the media has cooled in a sterile place right? I just want everything to go as smoothly as possible. All of the replies have helped. Thanks!

I used whatever wouldn't melt in the microwave! If you can get a hold of those take-away containers that the guy talks about in the youtube video, they are definitely the easiest. If you can find clear plastic pudding tubs from a homewares or kitchen craft store those will work well and are also pressure cooker safe if you ever want to try that method.

I'd be careful with tupperware. They might say that they're microwave safe, but remember there's a lot of sugar in the medium and sugary liquids get much hotter when heated - it might melt the container. You could also just put your medium in a big pyrex jug, heat that in the microwave and then pour it into your prepared jars/tubs. Leave them in a plastic bag sprayed with bleach until they're cool - just like the video.

Try and get jars/tubs that are completely clear. Even if it's see-through but slightly opaque, with the condensation inside the container after sowing, it's hard to see what's going on if the container is even slightly opaque.

[The Orchid Boy]

Seed pod is harvested and have all my materials except the medium.

NatalieS, do you have a link to the medium(s) you used?

Could I use replate media for germination and replating or is it best not to? How much should I order?

Thanks!