Whatever it is, Deflasking is never a dull moment

TRY IT
TRY IT

OUR SECRET TO A SUCCESS

  • Person pouring water from a glass pitcher into a tall glass on a wooden kitchen countertop. Water is bubbling in the glass. Several water filter cartridges are on the countertop, with a white water filter system and a green plant in the background.

    1. Preparation

    Sanitize all containers and tools
    Thoroughly clean and sanitize any bowls, containers, tools, and surfaces that will come into contact with the plant. This helps minimize contamination during the acclimation process.

    Prepare filtered water baths
    Fill 2–3 clean bowls with room-temperature filtered water.

    Use 2 bowls for standard cleaning

    Use 3 bowls for more thorough rinsing (recommended)

  • A small plant in a clear plastic container with water, placed on top of many stacked white containers.

    2. Deflasking & Cleaning

    Open the tissue culture container
    Carefully open the tissue culture bag or vessel to avoid damaging the plant.

    Initial rinse
    Gently remove the plant and place it into the first bowl of water.

    Remove agar from roots
    Carefully clean off all agar (gel medium) from the roots:

    Use your fingers for gentle removal

    A soft toothbrush can be used if needed

    Avoid excessive force to prevent root damage

    Second rinse
    Transfer the plant to the second bowl of clean water and rinse again to remove any remaining agar residue.

  • A close-up of a glass of water with a drop of red blood, with a hand holding a dropper above the glass.

    3. Sanitization Step (Optional but Recommended)

    Iodine treatment
    Prepare a third bowl with filtered water and add a few drops of iodine.

    Submerge the plant briefly (typically 1–2 minutes)

    This step helps reduce bacteria, fungi, and potential contaminants

    Final rinse
    Transfer the plant into a final bowl of clean, room-temperature water to rinse off any iodine residue.

  • Seedlings growing in small black pots under a clear plastic cover on a metal shelf.

    4. Planting & Humidity Setup

    Transfer to growing medium
    Place the cleaned plant into a pre-moistened brownie plug (or similar medium).
    Ensure roots are fully covered and supported.

    Set up humidity chamber

    Place the plug into a holder or tray

    Cover with a second container or dome to create a high-humidity environment

    Seal the enclosure
    Seal any gaps or openings (e.g., with tape) to create a near airtight environment, maintaining high humidity for acclimation.

  • Row of small potted green lettuce plants under grow lights on a white shelf.

    Aftercare Placement:

    Place the setup under a grow light with indirect or moderate intensity. Avoid direct, harsh light during the initial acclimation phase.

  • Glass cloche containing various green succulent plants on a gray surface, with a dark gradient background.

    Additional Tips

    Maintain high humidity (near 90–100%) for the first 1–2 weeks

    Gradually introduce airflow over time to harden the plant

    Avoid overwatering—the plug should be moist, not soaked

    Monitor for signs of mold or rot during early stages