Carnivorous plants and heat

It’s hot across much of the country, and this is only the start! This week is set to be a scorcher. Here are a few tips to help your carnivorous plants get through these hot spells without any problems.

Sarracenias aren’t bothered by the heatwave, as long as they have plenty of water!

Dionaea and Sarracenia are hardy carnivorous plants that aren’t afraid of tough conditions. If yours are used to the sun, they won’t suffer – quite the opposite! In their natural habitat, they sometimes grow in full sun. Essential: keep the growing medium constantly moist, ensuring it’s well-watered via a saucer beneath the pot. Darlingtonias, on the other hand, should be placed in the shade when it’s very hot.

Droseras generally prefer partial shade, though this does not prevent them from developing vibrant colours. If the air is very hot and dry, their sticky substance may reduce in volume, but this is not a sign of poor health. It is also essential to keep the growing medium well-moistened! Most are not bothered by high temperatures as long as their environment remains humid. Pinguiculas tolerate high temperatures well, but should be placed in the shade in any case.

Tropical carnivorous plants (Nepenthes, Heliamphora, etc.) thrive in moderate heat during the day, provided the air remains humid (above 60 per cent), but they must be kept out of direct sunlight. In a terrarium, spray water in the evening and leave the lid open to allow the temperature to drop by at least a few degrees.

Where shade is required, shade netting proves to be a first-rate solution!