One of the most popular carnivorous plants is the American pitcher. These succulents are very easy to grow and can be found in many of the most beautiful flower arrangements and landscapes you will ever see. They do require slightly more attention than some other plants but once they have been established they are quite easy to take care of. There are three things that make carnivorous plants a good choice for beginner and experienced gardeners; they are hardy, they’re very drought tolerant and they bloom very late in the year. However, if you live in an area that receives heavy downpours you should not grow carnivorous plants. Also if you live in an area where the temperatures are very hot, you might want to consider growing something different.
First rule of carnivorous plant care is never to let your American pitcher plant dry out!. Always situate the plant either in a shallow tray of water constantly changing the water daily. Glass or ceramic pots with small drainage holes in the bottom are great containers to keep the soil moist. Water the plant using either rainwater or regular tap water left outside overnight. However, if you live in an area that receives very heavy downpours you should consider growing something else.
Second rule of carnivorous plant care is to never over feed the plant. Unlike other plants, the leaves of this plant grow very short and it can actually handle a moderate amount of fertilizer. However for those of you who struggle with keeping your budget under control try to limit the amount of fertilizer you give to your plants.
Third rule of all plant care is never to over feed. Although your American Pitter Sprout likes a regular feeding it does not require so much. You should feed your sprouts about once a month in the beginning, once a week after the end of the growing season and once a fortnight during the winter months. Don’t ever feed your plant too often, as it may begin to get too hungry and burn its leaves.
Fourth rule of all garden care is never to stress the growing medium or any part of the plant for example the leaves or flowers. Stress will cause your plant to become unhealthy and will not allow it to get enough nutrients. Instead use a plastic bag to store the extra leaves and once they have bloomed cut off about a quarter of an inch of the flower heads and keep them in a Tupperware container.
Fifth rule of all plant care is to avoid over watering. When watering your American Pitter Sprout make sure to do so carefully and only to the point that the soil feels dry. This will help prevent the roots of the plant from becoming too compacted which can prevent the root system from supplying oxygen and nutrients. In addition to this if you over water you will also weaken the root system by causing it to rot. Just follow these simple rules and your American Pitter Sprouts will grow healthy and strong.
Sixth it is important to water your plant only when the soil is dry. If you wait until the soil is wet it will encourage the development of root disease. It is a good idea to water your plants just before you put them in the sun. Sunlight can make your plants more awake and able to absorb the water in the soil more easily.
Seventh, if you are growing any kind of plant for the first time it is a good idea to get advice from an expert. If you have grown plants in the past that you are not very familiar with then this is even more important. Only a trained professional who grows and maintains a garden with a consistent Pinterer will be able to give you sound advice on all aspects of American Pitcher Plant Care.