Venus Flytraps as Houseplants: Best Practices and Challenges

When it comes to growing Venus flytraps as houseplants, the truth is that it can be a challenging endeavor. While these fascinating carnivorous plants may not thrive indoors as well as they do outdoors in full sunlight, it is possible to make them a good addition to your indoor environment with the right care and attention. In this article, we will explore some best practices for keeping Venus flytraps as houseplants and address some of the challenges that come with it.

Are Venus Flytraps Good Houseplants?

Short answer: No. Venus flytraps require a significant amount of sunlight to maintain their health and survival. Their natural habitat is bogs in the southeastern United States, particularly in the Carolinas and the panhandle of Florida. To provide them with the conditions they need, Venus flytraps are best suited to outdoor environments with ample sunlight. However, if you have a particularly sunny spot and are willing to put in the effort, you can still grow them indoors with some adjustments.

The Best Indoor Care for Venus Flytraps

Despite not being ideal for indoor growing, there are steps you can take to improve their chances of survival and to make their indoor life more comfortable. Here are some tips:

Potting Soil

Grown naturally in boggy conditions, Venus flytraps prefer a well-draining soil mix to mimic their natural habitat. Combine equal parts peat moss and sphagnum moss for the perfect growing medium. Avoid using potting soil or any soil rich in nutrients, as Venus flytraps do not require fertilizer.

Lots of Light

While it is true that Venus flytraps generally need full sunlight, they can still survive with adequate artificial light. Fluorescent grow lights or LED grow lights can provide the necessary light if the natural sunlight is insufficient. Place your Venus flytraps near a window with ample sunlight, or use artificial lights for at least 12 hours a day during the growing season.

Watering

To keep your Venus flytraps hydrated, place the pot on a saucer filled with distilled water, rainwater, or reverse osmosis water. Avoid using tap water that contains chlorine or fluoride, as these can harm the plant. Refill the saucer as needed to keep the soil moist, but ensure there is proper drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot.

Fertilization

Fertilize the soil with a 1/2 strength solution of houseplant fertilizer, such as Miracle-Gro or Peters, once a month during the growing season. During the dormant period (late fall to early spring), reduce or stop fertilization to allow the plants to rest.

Special Care during Dormancy

By late November, the leaves of your Venus flytraps will begin to turn yellow, indicating the start of their dormant period. Cut back on watering and fertilizer, and allow the plant to rest. In this stage, the plant will need less care and attention, making it a good time to enjoy the natural beauty of the remaining traps.

Additional Tips for Success

To ensure your Venus flytraps thrive for years, consider these additional tips:

Temperature Control: During the dormant period, store the pot in a refrigerator at the bottom shelf (around 50°F to 60°F or 10°C to 15°C) for 3 weeks. This cold period is crucial for the plant to reset and prepare for the next growing season. When you bring them back to room temperature, they should be ready to grow again. Environment Maintenance: Keep the saucer filled with water, and add a little bit of sphagnum moss. This adds humidity and helps the plant retain moisture. Repot your plant in well-draining mix with 90 percent peat and 10 percent sphagnum moss to prevent fungal growth. Feeding: Venus flytraps can catch small insects, such as flies and moths, to supplement their growth. However, avoid overfeeding, as this can damage the traps. Allow the plant to catch its food naturally or use prey collected from the outdoors.

Conclusion

While Venus flytraps are primarily outdoor plants, with proper care, they can adapt to indoor living. By providing adequate sunlight, maintaining the right soil, and keeping the plants hydrated, you can enjoy their unique beauty in your home. Remember, patience and attention to detail are key to successfully growing Venus flytraps as houseplants.