Carnivorous plants in general all require the basic same care and conditions. Their natural habitat is wet, boggy marshland, and other similar nutrient poor conditions. In Summer they thrive in conditions that are hot, sunny, and constantly moist. In Winter they need cold temperatures and a dormant period of rest. This is a natural protective mechanism to help them survive. If they`re not allowed to rest then they become exhausted and are unable to grow the following season.
Secrets of success:
Summer care:
Carnivorous plants need lots of light for healthy growth, so a bright South facing windowsill is ideal. They also do extremely well in unheated conservatories. Too little light will produce poor growth.
During growing season, Spring and Summer, stand the plant in about 1cm of pure water. Rainwater is best, as they have evolved to survive in low nutrient soil, and tap water will lead to a build up of too many minerals and will harm the plant. Don`t fertilise for the same reason. Watering from below also stops the sticky, sweet residue that many of these plants produce from being washed away.
In their natural habitat temperatures frequently hit 30c in the Summer and below 0c in Winter, so are perfectly happy in our climate.
Aftercare:
Winter care:
As in nature they must have a cold Winter dormancy period between November and February. If grown in a heated room all year then you will need to move your plant to somewhere colder. Put them in an unheated room near a window, or in a garage or shed. If kept in an unheated conservatory then they can be kept there all year round. As the days shorten, and temperatures drop then your plant will die back. This is normal. During this period they require less water so keep them just damp. New growth should then begin around March when you can start to care for as above, Summer care.
Many varieties can be grown outdoors all year round if given some protection from severe Winters. A cloche or cold frame is often enough.
Warnings:
Not known to be toxic to humans or pets.
