PITCHER PLANT
The pitcher plant is a carnivorous plant that traps and digests insects. It has modified leaves shaped like a pitcher or vase, filled with digestive liquid. Insects are attracted by the plant's scent and bright colours, slip into the pitcher, and are unable to escape, eventually being digested to provide nutrients for the plant.
WATER
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Use rainwater to avoid mineral build up, as pitcher plants are sensitive to tap water. Placing them on a shallow tray of water is a good way to achieve this.
LIGHT
Pitcher plants thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. They can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon rays to prevent leaf burn
FERTILSING
Pitcher plants generally do not need fertilizer. They obtain nutrients from the insects they trap.
SOIL
Use a well-draining, nutrient-poor soil mix, such as one part sphagnum peat moss to one part perlite. Avoid using regular potting soil, as it can harm the plant.
TEMPERATURE
Standard household temperatures are fine for Pitcher Plants.
HUMIDITY
Pitcher Plants love increased humidity. Watering them with a shallow water tray as advised above is a good way to achieve this.
TOXICITY
Pitcher Plants are considered non toxic to humans and animals.
General Watering Tips
Place your plant, still in its plastic nursery pot, inside the decorative pot you've chosen. This setup allows the plant to enjoy the drainage and airflow provided by the nursery pot's holes, which are beneficial for root health.
When it’s time to water, you have two options:
1. Top Watering: Take the plant, nursery pot and all, out of the decorative pot and water it over a sink. Allow the water to drain completely before placing it back in the decorative pot to prevent water build up.
2. Bottom Watering: Place the nursery pot in a shallow dish of water and let the plant absorb moisture from the bottom. This method encourages the roots to grow downward and reduces the risk of overwatering.
Both methods help keep your plant healthy by promoting good drainage and root aeration.