Host Rebecca Kolls visited a California greenhouse that has one of the largest collections of carnivorous plants in the world. For these plants, insects are the main course.
There are many varieties of carnivorous plants. Sundews fool their prey with innocent-looking dewdrops that are really the strongest glue in nature. Venus flytraps secrete a juice to attract insects, and then their deadly jaws slam shut.
To plant these unique plants, use plastic or glazed ceramic pottery, preferably with a hole in the bottom. You'll need sphagnum moss to cover up the hole, peat moss (not Canadian) and a large saucer.
For potting, use potting or horticultural sand that has been well washed with a lot of water. Mix half peat moss and half sand, and then add some water. Carnivorous plants like low nutrient soils and rainwater or distilled water.
Now put the mixture into the pot with moss covering the hole. When planting a flytrap, don't disturb the roots unless it's winter when the plants are dormant. Fill up the sides with peat moss and sand.
Carnivorous plants like wet feet, so they should sit in one-half inch distilled water at all times. During the winter months, move them inside and place them in direct sun at least six hours a day. And don't fertilize. That could actually kill the plants.
Guests Marilee Maertz and Peter D'Amato
Owners
California Carnivores
Sebastopol, CA
Phone: 707-824-0433
Website:
www.californiacarnivores.com
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