In this section, I will introduce you to the so-called temperate climate carnivorous plants that I grow outdoors all year round.

The substrate

Carnivorous plants grow in wet areas such as peat bogs. The substrate must be blond peat. Perlite and dried sphagnum moss can be added. I also add live sphagnum moss to the surface. Drosera plants appreciate a thick layer of sphagnum moss on top of the peat. I will come back to this in the corresponding fact sheet. Blond peat is becoming increasingly difficult to find due to its unsustainable nature. However, there are alternatives that are being tested by some producers, such as coconut fiber. I have not yet tried these myself. In my webshop, you will find live and dried sphagnum moss to get you started with growing carnivorous plants.

Watering

Soft water such as rainwater or reverse osmosis water must be used. Watering with tap water containing minerals is fatal to carnivorous plants in the short term. From March to October, always leave the pot in 2 to 5 cm of water. In winter, I put the pots sheltered from bad weather on my terrace but always in the cold. It is important never to let the jar dry out completely. 

Wintering

The carnivorous plants that I will present below must remain outside in winter so that their winter rest is respected. The Drosera form what is called a hibernaculum. The glue traps disappear in winter and only the center of the plant remains, which seems to curl up on itself. Cold wintering is important for plants because it corresponds to their vegetative rhythm. Its absence leads to plant dieback. They should therefore not be kept warm in the apartment in winter.