Carnivorous plants, unique plants that have made their statement with their beautiful and unique traps. The carnivorous plant is also more often called the jewel of the plant world.
Indeed, they have won their place in plant lover's hearts thanks to their unique ability to capture and digest insects, but this is not the only reason. They also owe this to their exotic appearances. Our blog will provide you with all the essential information on the ideal temperature and living conditions needed for your carnivorous plants to flourish.
What is a carnivorous plant?
Carnivorous plants have evolved to survive in environments where the soil is poor in nutrients. This soil lacks perhaps the most important element for most plants - nitrogen. Since these plants cannot get nutrition from the soil, they have evolved to capture and digest insects. We know there are countless species in the carnivorous plant world, but I think you know the most iconic carnivorous plant species, such as the: famous Venus flytrap, various species of sundew, pitcher plants.
Each species in the giant carnivorous plant family has its own unique mechanism to capture prey, and each of these species have specific requirements for their care and living conditions. Here we take a closer look at what these plants need to stay healthy and active.
Ideal temperature for carnivorous plants
The temperature requirements of carnivorous plants can vary greatly depending on the species and the natural habitat in which it is found. There is a general rule for the vast majority of carnivorous plants and that is that most of them prefer a temperate climate, with temperature varying between 21 and 29 degrees Celsius during the day. At night, it is more favourable to let the temperature drop slightly to about a temperature variation between 10 and 21 degrees Celsius. Of course, this again depends entirely on each species.
Specific temperature requirements
Let's take a look at the specific temperature requirements of 3 better-known carnivorous plant species:
- Venus fly trap: needs a temperature of 20-30 degrees Celsius during the day and cooler at night. In the case of the Venus flytraps from Carnivory.eu, they may stay outside in summer and winter. This is because our Venus flytraps are hardy.
- Sundew: The Sundew has an easier temperature requirement compared to many other species of carnivorous plants. In summer, these plants thrive at a temperature of 23 to 27 degrees Celsius. When these plants then go back into the night, they are generally happier between 12 and 15 degrees Celsius. Again, it all depends entirely on whether you have a tropical Sundew or a more temperate Sundew.
- Cup plants: Tropical pitcher plants like our Nepenthes thrive at temperatures between 24 and 29 degrees Celsius. These are therefore the tropical species
Humidity and water requirements
Although that carnivorous plants value temperature, humidity is actually just as important for their well-being. Many species thrive best at high humidity levels of 60% to 80%. This can be a challenge when you like to keep your carnivorous plants indoors. Fortunately, there are solutions for this, such as a humidifier.
Water use
When watering your carnivorous plants, it is extremely important to use rainwater, distilled water or reverse osmosis water. This will ensure that you keep your plants in top condition. The problem with tap water lies in the minerals and chemicals, such as chlorine and fluoride, that you often find in tap water. These can accumulate at the roots and cause a lot of damage to your plants. But how much water should you actually give your plants? Make sure the soil stays moist and does not get soggy. In addition, make sure your carnivorous plants have pots with good drainage. This way, you will prevent root rot.
The bottom
Carnivorous plants require specific soil to grow in. We at Carnivory.eu have developed a carnivorous plant soil that perfectly suits every carnivorous plant species. This soil is low in nutrients and thus prevents the roots of your carnivorous plant from being damaged.
Light
Light is an incredibly important component for the growth of carnivorous plants. Most species prefer bright and indirect sunlight. A spot near a window facing east or west is ideal. Should you live in a less sunny climate or have many dark winter months, no problem. For this, you can again use artificial light, or a grow lamp.
Nutrition and maintenance
We now know that carnivorous plants sustain themselves and feed on insects. As a result, carnivorous plants also do not need extra nutrition to survive. Overfeeding carnivorous plants could do them more harm than good. Let nature take its course.
Conclusion
We at Carnivory.eu understand that growing your own carnivorous plants can be a fascinating hobby, giving you a deeper insight into the complex and wonderful nature. Now that you understand and apply their specific requirements, you can enjoy the growth and flowering of these fascinating plants.