how to and when to replate baby orchid seeds when not very big

[orchiddream]

hi: waving. I know people are going to say WAIT, but I think I need to replate the little protocorms into the charcoal agar. the seeds have grown about 1mm ( since november 13) but have worked there way to the bottom of the jars, also there is lots of condensation in the jars. they are just not growing!!! I have already got the the solution ready in the jars and have waited about a week to see if any growth in the new jars. .. good.. none present. I am preparing to do this tomorrow when I have dropped the kids off at school. so..... how do I sterilise the tiny seeds, and is it wise doing this. please help me.

[OCRC_Dir_China]

Each time you open the growth vessel you stand a chance of bacterial contamination from surface contact or air borne, even breathing to close to them can pollute your product.
I sow the seeds in a, none vented growth vessel (Sealed container) but replating they need gas exchange to grow properly so a vented growth vessel. There are commercial kinds, or plugging the hole with cotton wool that has been sterilized to form a breathable seal.
As protocorms begin to use photo synthesis they are breathing and will make condensation this is why we use vented growth vessels for them.

[orchiddream]

ok, thanks I have a hole in the new lids of the jars they are going in with a material sterile plaster over so the air gets filtered in. so its ok to do this with them being so small. I never did it yesterday or today as ive been ill. thanks for your reply.

[OCRC_Dir_China]

Just use what is called cotton wool, it is resistant to mold and rot. It must be sealed well so nothing can by pass it.

---------- Post added at 07:52 AM ---------- Previous post was at 07:46 AM ----------

You can find cotton wool at a drug store or pharmacy, medical supply store.