Byblis seed have evolved to require some special care. All species except for B. liniflora will require fire or smoke exposure to chemically condition seeds for germination. It is believed that the smoke, not heat exposure, is what triggers germination. In native Byblis habitats, exposure to fire happens during fast-moving brush fires. The fires are seasonal, but sometimes years go by without them. This means that multiple year’s worth of Byblis seeds can stockpile until a fire finally triggers hundreds or thousands of them to sprout simultaneously.

In cultivation, you’ll need to mimic exposure to smoke for seed germination.

Method 1 – Light a small fire: Lightly press seeds onto the damp surface of the soil you will grow them in. Moist soil will prevent over-exposure to heat. The pot you use should be clay or ceramic, and not melt-happy plastic. Position torn paper towels, hay, or dried grass over the top of the seeds, and light with a match. Softly blow on the small fire to get it burning well and ensure that the seeds beneath get a good dose of smoke. Once the fire burns itself out, allow the surface to cool, dust off the ash, and water. You’ll have baby rainbow plants in a few weeks.

Method 2 – Light a cigarette: Sow the seed as you would using the above method, and place a burning cigarette on the soil next to them. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to hold in the smoke. The cigarette will quickly burn itself out, and you can leave the bag over the pot until the smoke inside clears.

Method 3 – Liquid smoke: This is the most delicious method known to germinate a carnivorous plant. Liquid smoke can be picked up here, or at most grocery stores, and is a type of seasoning used to flavor barbecue and other tasty food. Pour some of this in a small bowl, and soak your Byblis seeds in it for 15-20 minutes. Transfer directly to preferred soil.