How often should I repot a Pinguicula?
Many of the Pinguicula hybrids bloom over a longer period of time than pure species. After about five years they need repotting because the deep thatch of old leaves get in the way of the new roots reaching the soil from the growing plants. Pinguicula do not have extensive roots and anchor to the surface of their soil making them ideal candidates for quirky, cute, small, non-draining planters like teacups or vintage pottery. You can plant them in all variety of pots as long as they are glazed ceramic, glazed terracotta, glass or plastic.Growth Habit: Pinguicula are generally small plants; depending on the species and growth phase, they can range from 1/2” to 8” across at maturity. Most are 2-4” across.Pinguicula’s size can range from 1 to 10 in diameter, depending on the species or hybrid. They are also known for their pretty flowers, which vary by species. Butterworts are really easy to grow; all they need is distilled water and sunlight.
What can I feed my Pinguicula?
Butterworts (Pinguicula) If they seem to be having trouble though, sprinkle some fish food or bloodworms on a sticky leaf or two every 2-3 weeks. Butterwort can be found growing in sunny, open, wet locations throughout the southeastern US. They do well in nutrient-poor soil. Grow in full sun to partial shade in consistently moist soil. Use a planting mix of whole fiber sphagnum moss or a mix of equal parts peat moss and coarse vermiculite or sharp sand.Butterworts require nutrient-free soil that provides good drainage and aeration. Use a slightly sandy soil mixture of 1 part peat moss, 1 part perlite, and 1 part sand. Never use potting soil, compost or fertilizer; these ingredients will kill your plant.The Butterwort is one of the only carnivorous plants to catch mosquitoes. The Sundew (another carnivorous plant) is also a real mosquito catcher.Butterworts are excellent at trapping small prey all on their own. Let them catch their own food. They only need to feed a few times a month, and do not require daily feeding. Plants grown indoors or in a terrarium will benefit from supplemental feedings using wingless fruit flies or other very small insects.Butterworts are excellent at trapping small prey all on their own. Let them catch their own food. They only need to feed a few times a month, and do not require daily feeding. Plants grown indoors or in a terrarium will benefit from supplemental feedings using wingless fruit flies or other very small insects.
Are Pinguicula easy to grow?
If you’ve never grown Pinguicula species, you are in for a treat. These are easy to grow, carnivorous plants and are truly a delight! They also stay small, so they’re perfect for warm, sunny windowsills where space is at a premium. They also catch fruit flies and fungus gnats and they flower. What more can you ask for? Pinguicula do not have extensive roots and anchor to the surface of their soil making them ideal candidates for quirky, cute, small, non-draining planters like teacups or vintage pottery. You can plant them in all variety of pots as long as they are glazed ceramic, glazed terracotta, glass or plastic.Most Mexican Pinguicula prefer an alkaline soil mix. I have found a good mix for house plant Pinguicula to be one part each of peat, coarse sand, and perlite.Most pinguicula have very shallow roots system (less than an inch below surfaces) and many produce surfaces & aerial roots.