Using your tissue culture plants is easy! Follow these simple steps for best success:

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DEFLASKING

Remove the plantlets from the cup and gently rinse away all of the liquid media or agar with clean, room-temperature water. Separate the individual plants and trim away any damaged or decaying leaves. You may find that tweezers and a small pair of scissors can be helpful with this step. Plant the clean plantlets as soon afterwards to prevent them from drying out. You can also mist them every couple of minutes during the planting process to keep them hydrated.

 

If growing under water/submersed, plant either into your aquarium substrate or by fixing epiphytic species onto driftwood or rock. Tissue culture plants can be planted underwater immediately and no acclimation is necessary.

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If growing emersed/terrestrially, ensure the plantlets have higher humidity (80-100%) until they grow new roots before beginning the acclimation process to get them used to lower humidity levels. When new leaves emerge (2-3 weeks) that is usually a good sign that the plants are now ready to be adjusted to lower moisture. You can do so gradually by opening terrarium or greenhouse vents slowly over a week or two. If your plants are not seen wilting, they can be grown at the desired humidity level that is appropriate for the species. 

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LIGHTING AND HEATING

For submersed plants simply follow the lighting and temperature recommendation for your specific species.

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For emersed/terrestrial plants we find keeping new tissue culture plantlets slightly warmer than room temperature (75-80F) helps with the rooting process and preventing root rot.

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