SARRACENIA Sarracenia seedpods are now developing. They will be ready for
harvest in October and November.
Pitcher plants will slowly fill up with insect and brown patches may occur along the pitcher. This is perfectly normal.
As insects decompose, they will discolor the sides of the pitcher. These brown patches
mean that your plant is earning its keep!
When the season heats up, you might see brown spots on the lid of some pitcher plants, particularly the early season plants, such as
S. flava and S. oreophila. As their pitchers age, the nectar on their lids dry up and turn brown.
S. leucophylla might grow non-carnivorous leaves this month and next. It is their way to adapt to hot dry conditions.
Look for normal pitchers in September.
VENUS FLYTRAP
The last of Venus flytrap flowers will occur this month. Those that flowered in late spring will develop seedpods by now.
HARDY SUNDEWS Sundews will be heavily specked with insects.
GENERAL CARE
• Keep their trays filled with mineral-free water to keep the soil moist at all times. Never allow the soil to dry out.
• These plants love sunlight. Grow them in full sun whenever possible.
• If you are planning a vacation this month, make sure you have
someone water your plants for you. Water trays can dry up
quickly during hot summer days.
• Pay attention to aphids! They love to feed on new growth.
Usually aphid damage will show up as disfigured leaves and
pitchers. Unfortunately, by the time you see the damage, the
aphids are long gone. To protect the new growth, neem oil. Spray generously on your plant. You may need to repeat every 3-5 days.
As always, follow the instructions provided
by the manufacturer.
• Slugs also love to munch on new growth. To control these
pests use slug bait. However, slug bait is toxic to carnivorous
plants, so never place it on the soil surface of your
carnivorous plants or in the water trays. Place it only around
the water trays. If you have pets, use Sluggo®. This
particular brand of slug bait is safe to use around pets and
wildlife. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Worried about the summer heat? Watch this video for practical tips.
GENERAL CARE
• If you want to move your tropical plants outdoors, you may do
so now. However, plants prefer stable conditions and can take up to a month to acclimate to their new environment.
They may stop producing dew or pitchers as they acclimate.
In most situations, tropical plants do better remaining in your
home during the summer months.
• If you decide to move your plants outdoors, place them in an
area where they can receive direct early morning sunlight or
bright indirect light for most of the day. Shelter them from the
afternoon sun. After a couple of weeks, you may move them to a
brighter location, according to what they need.
• Avoid placing Mexican butterworts (Pinguicula),
South African sundews, and South American sundews outdoors. These plants prefer mild temperatures.
• Make sure your plants are
watered appropriately. Never allow the soil to dry completely.
• Tropical plants are also prone to pests, such as aphids,
thrips and scales. Always take immediate action if you see any
of these pests or suspect pests may be a problem. Pests can get
out of control quickly in the home. Start with naturally-derived
insecticides made with pyrethrin or Neem. As always, follow the directions provided
by the manufacturer.
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