Thanks for debunking some of these myths! I live in Colorado and have had one of the $7 Lowes flytraps sitting in my south facing window for 3 years now and it grows like a weed! I normally always have flies in my house because i have four dogs and constantly opening the doors for them allows a lot of flies to come in but the fly trap handles them like nothing. I've repotted my flytrap and its spread twice already and has outgrown the new pot but i don't have enough window space to put a bigger pot.

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

You're very welcome! Thanks for watching!! I actually started growing flytraps again as an adult while we were living in Boulder, Colorado. They did great outdoors there from May through October and then in a south-facing, unheated attached porch in the winter. If you can get yours outdoors, they will do much much better than they will in light filtered through a window.

@parks.

2 жыл бұрын

@@FlytrapStore I've been growing in steamboat/summit for 6 years, they only get like 4 months outdoors, the temp fluctuations are too crazy to take chances with my work schedule.

@bigwhomperz

2 жыл бұрын

what kind of soil did you use to replant??

You guys are really great people, sharing your experience and genuinely spreading love for CPs! Super friendly people in forum too. Love you guys!

Great info, thanks! And, an extra big thanks for filming with the rain hitting the greenhouse panels. I love that sound.

Great info. Thanks for sharing. I just picked up a venus fly trap recently and wanting to make sure I give it the best care. Removed mine from the sitting water and have it outside in some hot Colorado sun but keeping the the soil (bought some special soil mixture for them) damp. I've seen it eating up mosquitos already. :D We've been hitting 100 and hovering around it lately.

im so glad you went over the trap always being in water -- mine are because thats the "proper care" now i will try just keeping the substrate moist and hopefully they will do better

Awesome video, I happen to live in Southern AZ so now I know I need to rethink my plans for this plant. Just started today so this is really helpful.

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

Жыл бұрын

Glad to hear it! Growing in southern AZ can be challenging for sure. The sun there is so intense! I lived south of Tucson for almost a decade, so I'm familiar with the area. I'd recommend using a shade cloth at all times for Venus flytraps growing in the southern Arizona heat. They can probably be in full sun during the winter months, but getting a good 30% to 40% shade cloth to use on days when it is over 90F would help them immensely. Aluminent shade cloths are great because they reduce the heat but reflect a lot of the light, so you might consider looking at getting some of that material. Good growing!

This was more informational than the 5 videos I just watched combined! Thank you so much!

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

Awesome! Glad you found it helpful and thanks so much for the kind feedback!!

I had my 4 traps for 3 months… their getting bigger.. awesome info ty

Thanks for confirming some of my suspiciouns. Especially surrounding the water.

Thank you!♥️

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

You're very welcome!

Subbed just because this has been the most pertinent info I’ve gathered! Thanks!))

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for the sub!!! Much appreciated and also very much appreciate the nice feedback.

@danny1983ish

3 жыл бұрын

@@FlytrapStore hi I live on the south east coast in the U. K, can I grow these in my garden in a pot? My soil is clay so a pot be better, my garden is very sunny most of the day. I have rescued a trapper from a hardware store but has blacken on the leaves and traps and looks more yellow that green, what can be done to perk him uo

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

@@danny1983ish Yes, on the south east coast of UK flytraps will grow very, very well. You'll definitely want to use a pot and use some sort of sphagnum (either peat or long fiber) because the soil there isn't suitable for them. If you repot your recent rescued trapper into a better soil mix and a larger pot and put it outside in your garden, it should look much much better in just a couple of months!

@danny1983ish

3 жыл бұрын

@@FlytrapStore would you recommend a terracotta pot, clay or bog standard plastic?

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

@@danny1983ish We typically use plastic pots these days that are at least 4 inches deep and the deeper the better. The best pots I've ever used are insulated polyurethane foam pots that are 10-12 inches deep. They keep the soil temperature and moisture level very stable for a very long time and the flytraps absolutely love them!

thank god i bumped into your video. I had been sitting my recently purchased venus flytrap for 2 days and sat them in water all along. I also wondered if they get can root rot this way too. Clearly, i'm getting a second opinion about it.

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

10 ай бұрын

Many growers in warmer climates can and do leave their flytraps sitting in water all the time, particularly if the pots are deep (more than 5 inches). In our experience, doing so in colder climates increases the chances of them rotting. And they do grow better if not left water logged all the time. For these reasons, we typically recommend keeping the soil moist all the time but not soaking wet for too long. Good growing!

I live in Texas and I'm new to this so I did take my new plants outside which was 111°F and 2 hours later all 4 plants that was standing up were laying flat and started to wilt . Soil was super moist so it had plenty of water . Stuck a thermometer into the soil it read 180°F . Bring the plant inside and haven't taken it back outside or windowsill just got them under 8 grow light sticks .got a lot of new growth showing up it's looking a lot healthier went from a light green to dark green. No problem with the leaves I fed the live mealworms to and I bottom water the plant.

I'd like to ask if when growing venus flytraps from seeds, should I use a topper ware with holes on top for humidity and air circulation? Because I live in a tropical country near the equator and I'd like to have prior knowledge once I receive my seeds 😁

I started growing mine in a window here in New York with 3 plants 4 years ago. I now have 15 live plants in various stages and ages. They don't exactly thrive but they do grow steadily and get their typical 7 traps going at all times. I live in an apartment and have an open balcony but nearly extincted my traps the first year as at peak times that deck area can reach over 120 degrees and regular does so. So I have to tolerate less then perfection. I will how ever cut back on the watering as I too was taught to keep them in a tray that always had a bout half an inch of water. I will also transfer to deeper pots this year as that is another thing I learned recently. the longer deeper roots are better for the plants.

6:52 I've been growing flytraps for years in a window still (south, hr++ glass). Same plants + propagation.

Awesome video. I can't wait to get some shirts. Definitely put up a video on all the shirts and info please. Thanks

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

Shirts are available now!: www.flytrapcare.com/store/other-items/flytrapstore-t-shirts I'd be happy to put up a video of all of the shirts too. What would you like to see in the videos?

@rodderbeck1591

3 жыл бұрын

I think it would be great to see all the different styles and graphics. Are you going to make any deals like if someone buys over 100 bucks worth of plants they get a free shirt or something like that?

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

OK, we will make some videos of me wearing the T-shirts and talking about them a bit. Initially, we will probably only offer them for sale. They aren't cheap to make, so we have quite a bit invested in each shirt. But I'm sure at some point in the future we will run specials with the shirts as part of package deals or orders over a certain dollar amount will receive a free shirt, etc. Something to watch for in the future!

If you try to feed them dead insects, the traps won’t stay closed around the insects because they aren’t moving and the plants aren’t getting that feedback to know to continue with the digestion process. So, after a while, they will reopen and not digest the food.

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

This is true but a little massaging of the sides of the trap after feeding them dead bugs will stimulate them enough to remain closed and begin digestion.

subbed and that shirt is eye catching

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

I have to say I love the shirt. It is currently my favorite shirt I own!!

Hey. Awesome info on the tray method. Curious to hear your preferred water method since they don't sit in water. During the growing season do you top water or put enough water in the trays to allow the medium to suck it up? -Ric

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

Hey Ric! Typically during the growing season, particularly once the days get really hot here, I have to put about a half-inch of water in each of the trays to get the flytraps through the days when it is up near 100°F with very low humidity. But during the warm spring months, I normally just top water them each day if it isn't going to be over 80-85°F. Basically, I just try to walk the line of keeping the soil damp all the time, but never too wet. It results in robust root systems and very large plants, particularly if they catch a lot of bugs!

Thanks for all the advice on growing flytraps! after years trying im finally able to grow outside my plants, however im still curious on the watering method. I currently use 16oz styrfoam cups but tray watering, which results on a much dryer top but quite wet bottom, during watering on top should avoid reaching water at the plant at all cost or theres no issue as long as the traps dont close? also how do i know if theres enough water on the plant? thank you so much!

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

You're very welcome for the advice! Glad to hear that you've figured out how to grow your plants outside now. That's where they're most happy :) As for watering, with those 16oz cups, because they are sufficiently deep, you can leave them sitting in an inch or so of water and that will be fine. However, if you want to try to water the same way we do, then you'd want to water from the top until water flows out the bottom of the pot. Then wait until the surface of the soil is just damp again and the 16oz cup is starting to get light to water again. Don't worry about triggering the traps closed, as that inevitably happens when watering from the top and getting water on the traps. Hope that helps!!

Hi there! I just got my 1st Venus flytrap...so I’m definitely a beginner! Love your videos....I’m learning ALOT! One question I have is.....is it true u have to water them with only distilled water? No tap water at all? Thank you! 👍🤡👍

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

It isn't technically true that tap water is not acceptable for flytraps. The thing to avoid is water that is high in mineral content, and most tap water in the United States would fall into that category. However, some areas of the country have tap water that is low in mineral content and acceptable to use. We live in Ashland, Oregon and the tap water here is acceptable to use. The way to find out if your tap water is OK to use is to get a TDS meter. They can be purchased for under $15. If your tap water reads 50ppm or less, it is generally considered safe to use. If it is 100ppm or less, it might be safe to use, particularly if you water from the top without a tray and let the water flow freely out the bottom of the pot to avoid mineral build up in the soil or tray. But distilled water and collected rainwater are always safe to use.

Thank you for mentioning NM high desert and Arizona! I am in Bisbee, AZ, which is high desert (5,500 feet) where we get up to about 100 degrees (although mostly in the 90s) on some summer days, and well below freezing for a month or so in winter. Will a Venus Flytrap be ok outdoors in the cold of winter or should we keep them in pots so we can transfer them inside for a little while until things warm back up?

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

I'd highly recommend avoiding frost and freezing for Flytraps. They can handle it a bit but it is better to not let them experience frost or freeze. So, as long as it is above freezing and there's no chance of frost, you can leave them outdoors. If it is just going to frost, you can cover them for the night. If it is going to freeze, it's best to bring them indoors until the freezing conditions are over.

Man that TShirt is awesome!!!

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks! I totally agree!! It's currently my favorite T-shirt I own :)

@GreenthumbsGarden

3 жыл бұрын

When I have a spare bit of coin....I want one! That'll be a funky shirt to wear for my vids...lol

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

@@GreenthumbsGarden For sure!

Also important is when feeding them, don't give them food larger than about 2/5 the size of the trap, or less than one-half. Otherwise, the food will rot before it is fully digested and kill the trap.

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

Good addition!!

@fevernight123

Жыл бұрын

I learned that the hard way... My Venus fly trap is doing super well now!

Outside in pond always wet . I use well water there . rain water should be safe too?

Thank you for this video. 🙂 I'm unsure if my soil is damp or wet, how can I tell? They sit on a plate and I usually leave a really thin layer of water on the surface of the plate, is even that too much? Should I dry it out? And if so, how do I make sure the soil is exactly as damp as it should be? Also, how should I treat them during dormancy? I grow my flytraps indoors under grow lights. Kinda confused over how much light they need during this time

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

Жыл бұрын

Unless it is hot and dry or the pots are very small and thus the soil doesn't retain much moisture, it usually isn't necessary to leave flytraps sitting in water. And they do better if kept moderately moist and not water logged for too long. I usually use a few ways to check soil moisture - visual (dry soil is lighter in color), weight of the pot, and checking if the surface of the soil is damp to the touch. Determining if the soil is moist enough is fairly easy to do by knowing the weight of the pot when the soil is thoroughly saturated. If the pot feels light and the surface of the soil looks fairly dry, then it is likely time to water. If the pot is very large, as in 8 inches deep or more, it could be another day or few days before it would need to be watered depending on the time of year and size of pot. After becoming familiar with your individual pots and growing conditions, you'll develop a feel for when to water. For us, in the summer we have to water the small pots virtually every day. In the winter we can go 2 weeks or more between waterings.

One misconception is, that Dionea muscipula need dormancy for thriving. I live in an area , where sunshine is very rare and the winter are very long with frosts down to -20°C and frequent thaw periods which stresses the plants. Keeping them outside in the winter kills all the plants, because they were smashed from wet ice. We have a lot of rain and I have them outdoors at the end of May until September. It is not enough time to build enough substance. I Have this plant since 53 years and made experiments in dormancy, because this plant propagate very strongly. Dormancy kills them, because they need a lot of time after spring to rebuild some leaves. They get smaller and weaker every year until they die. Another group of plants were cultivated during the winter time under artificial light and a temperature of 25°C about 50 years and these plants are very strong and compact in growth. Without artificial light, the leaves become very broad to catch light as much as possible and the traps becomes very small, but recover faster in the spring than when subjected to hibernation. Heavy rainfall and standing in water for months do not seem to harm it. If the substrate dries a bit, the rhizomes are stimulated to grow vigorously and anchor the plant more firmly in the substrate as the rhizome grows downwards.

Great video! Very informative. Should I water sundews the same way? People recommend them sitting in water but the soil is way too soggy in my opinion.

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the kind feedback! Yes, I keep my sundews similarly watered where they're not too wet for too long, but the soil is always moist. I typically try to walk the line on keeping the soil just damp enough and not too soggy for too long with all the plants I grow. It is much easier to just leave them sitting in water, but it does come with the tradeoffs that the plants just don't grow as well and there are more susceptible to disease.

@tashalousdadful

3 жыл бұрын

@@FlytrapStore thank you for your help.

Sorry if I sound like a commercial with this post, but I just received my first plants from Matt and they were packaged EXTREMELEY well and the plants were in excellent shape. I highly recommend them!

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for the nice feedback!!

@rjrotermund

3 жыл бұрын

And thanks Leah as well!

Hey Matt! I am glad to see you are doing well! I've been to Steve's place... I don't live to far from him. I have lost contact with him though and I am hoping that he is doing okay. If you see him tell him Jake said hi.

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

Hey Jake! I spoke to Steve just a couple of months ago and he was doing really well. He doesn't grow much anymore other than his two favorite Venus flytrap varieties: SD Kronos and Jaws. I do plan on calling him again soon and I'll let him know you said "hello"!

@jakeh6295

3 жыл бұрын

@@MattMillerFlytrapStore Thankyou Matt! Means alot, I really enjoyed my time seeing him and talking about plants.

@mikepellerin4611

2 жыл бұрын

Hey Matt, can you ask Steve to maybe make a Forum Post or Fact Sheet on "Tips for Growing in Extreme Heat"? I know he lives in New Mexico. I live in S. Arizona. I'm not a new grower, but growing down here after my relocation from Massachusetts, has been a bit difficult. Thank you. PS: I'm a big fan of your Company!

Does Steve in NM have a website or store? I'm in NM and would be interested to learn his techniques.

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

No, unfortunately Steve stopped growing a few years ago due to health reasons and no longer operates website or store.

Hi guys, I bought a flytrap today, but I am worried it's not going to make it (I know better, yes, but it's just a little experiment I guess). I live in Central Europe and it is getting very cold outside (no sun + continuous freezing temperatures for another 6 months or so). Is there any way to keep it alive indoors? I have replanted it in a plastic pot in a mixture of peat moss and perlite and watered it with distilled water, but I'm not sure what to do with it now. Should I put it on the window sill in the bedroom, where the temperature doesn't fluctuate and where it would get enough daylight?

Great video, thank you for taking the time and uploading this good content. I do have one additional question, those nice pots that he was referring to do not look like they are glazed. I have read numerous times that you only want to use glazed ceramic pots.

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

Жыл бұрын

Good question! Those pots aren't glazed but they're also not ceramic :) They are insulated polyurethane foam pots, so they are inert and don't leech minerals into the soil.

@996TwinTurbo911

Жыл бұрын

@@MattMillerFlytrapStore Excellent. Thank you for the reply. I am going to try and find one or two for future replanting's.

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

Жыл бұрын

@@996TwinTurbo911 If you are able to find some, please let me know! I haven't been able to find them in quite a few years, though there are some large and attractive plastic pots out there now but they don't insluate as well as the foam pots.

Just a heads up, I tried following the link in the description and could not figure out a way to make any purchases, I light be blind though

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

Hi Bryce, which link did you follow. The link to the store is here: www.flytrapcare.com/store/

I try to tell people how to grow them but some people just will not listen. I try to help tons of people on the forums and Reddit but man, some people just insist they can grow them indoors. They always reference the ICPS paper on growing them indoors. I just tell them good luck and move on. Some people have to learn the hard way I guess. Thanks Matt & Leah!

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you, Tommy, for helping people learn! Yeah, it is unfortunate that there is so much information out there about growing them indoors and people will typically latch onto whatever they find first and refuse to or be resistant to believing anything else after that. Thanks for trying to set people straight though! We just gotta keep trying. You're right that many people won't listen and sometimes we just have to move on and let them learn the hard way. But some people do listen and are very grateful for the help you and others have offered!!

@devilmecare

3 жыл бұрын

The one I was growing was healthy and was thriving indoors. The thing that killed it was my cat. Came home and she had ate the whole thing. Hoped she would get sick but she has a cast iron stomach.

I’ve just started growing my VFTs in 12” plastic pots, 2/3 filled with peat/sand mix, and the top half LFS. I grow 5 of these pots outside on my deck. They get sun from morning till 4-5pm in the evening. Previous years I grew them in a peat/sand mix, using the tray method forwater. I’m hoping they do better in the current mix, with top watering. But even now, not being summer, the LFS drys quickly and I have to water every day or 2. My question is can I tray water or is this a bad idea? I’m just constantly making RO water for these guys. Vancouver, Canada

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

Tray watering is fine, particularly when the pots are very deep as in your case.

sooo can I use plant lights for the plant indoors

Is it better to leave them outside during winter or inside?

Thanks so much for this! We bought a trap at Walmart in the death box a couple months ago. Been doing all the no no’s like putting it in a window and leaving it in the package with the lid on. It’s done well so far but it got a flower and we didn’t know what to do so we cut it, but it had buds on it… not actual flowers… will it live after this? Or is it a lost cause to plant it in a pot and put outside?

@FlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

Venus flytraps will usually survive flowering if they are in decent health. Sometimes it will kill the primary growth point and they will turn into multiple smaller plants, but those too will grow back to a mature plant with good care. If there is any green left on the plant and, more importantly a healthy white rhizome, it should recover with good care.

@Argo-F-Ur-Sef

2 жыл бұрын

I didn’t know they flower. Can you tell m more about that and what to do? I’m just about to plant my Walmart flytrap.

Is it possible for the plant to survive for more than 5 years without dormancy? I have grown Venus Flytraps in the Philippines that are big and healthy without dormancy, they just don't flower, although there are times of the year where the plants look weaker and are eventually returning to full strength.

Aloha, I have a venus fly trap and I repotted it with moss and pearlits. My fly trap loves the bigger pot. Now it bloom 3 time in the 6mo. I have it sitting in rain water and in the water has baby earthworms. It's going in the bottom of the pot. Is earthworms okay to have in the moss with the plant. Do I need to make new moss/ pearlits.

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

Earthworms are OK to have in the soil for Sarracenia pitcher plants, but they put out castings that seem to be too rich for flytraps to enjoy. I've seen earthworms really do some damage to flytraps in large collections when they start multiplying. It is best to repot and get rid of them from all flytrap pots.

is it possible to over feed them? great video by the way! i was believing about HALF of these myths. luckily i just got mine yesterday and can put an end to what i was doing and take care of them properly. thank you so much!

@FlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

Yes, if flytraps catch a lot of insects all at once or are fed in every trap, it can slow them down in the short term and cause them to lose some traps to stress. However, I don't think it is possible to kill them by over feeding them. They just take some time to grow back after losing some foliage. Thanks for the feedback on the video! Glad to hear you found it helpful!!

@d_d_d_d_

2 жыл бұрын

@@FlytrapStore thank you so much! y’all are great

@fairuzraz2468

2 жыл бұрын

I had once feed all nine of my traps in a day with fly. But after a week,7 out of 9 traps were dead,kinda sad and confusing at that time. But after a couple of days,a few baby traps starting to grow back. I hope you learn some lesson from my mistake. (feed to much traps) 😊

@d_d_d_d_

2 жыл бұрын

@@fairuzraz2468 thank you!

Hi, do you need to change the water under the pots everyday or not? Thank you

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

Hi Christie - I'm not sure what you mean by "change the water" -- in the video we talk about never leaving flytraps in standing water so there would be no need to change the water as there would be no water to change. If you do want to grow such that the plants are sitting in water all the time, I'd recommend pots at least 10 inches deep and changing the water wouldn't be necessary in that case.

@christiesilva6918

3 жыл бұрын

@@MattMillerFlytrapStore hi thanks for the explanation!!

What kind of water can i give them, can i use filtered water like a britta filter ?

@FlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

Unfortunately, Britta filters don't usually remove enough mineral content to make it safe for flytraps. It's better to use a reverse osmosis unit, collect rainwater, or buy distilled water.

Can you make a video about growing from seeds.

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

Great idea! Yes, I will try to put together a video on growing Venus flytraps from seeds very soon.

@gopogo1209

3 жыл бұрын

@@FlytrapStore ok thank you.

Im new to growing venus flytraps but Im trying to find good info. My local growers advice was to keep them soaking wet in rain water. I will be using distilled or rain water, but after investigating on my own it didn't make a ton of sense to drown them based on where they grow in the wild so thank you for clearing that out!. I live in Ireland though and Im worried about the light. There's so little sunshine here as it is but what worries meet most is the intense constant wind that will start in a few weeks as October looms close. Everywhere I've checked says to keep them outside for the light, I do get that a window no matter how big os no replacement, but everyone also says that wind damage killed or heavily damaged their plants. Are my plants doomed? Were in zone 9 here if I remember correctly so Im not worried about temperature perse... It's just I think the irish weather won't be kind to them. I'm very weary of leaving them out there, I cannot stress enough that the wind here is constant and strong. My local grower said something that makes not a ton of sense to me " never put them in a window especially not an open window, just find a cosy spot for them". Any advice? I have a massive wall to wall east facing window and planned to supplement with light at this window xD is this crazy?

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

Жыл бұрын

The wind probably won't hurt them itself unless it is a very hot and drying wind. However, if it carries rain or hail, that could cause some damage to the foliage, but not death to the plants. If you can figure out a way to provide them some shelter from the wind, that would be ideal. But I'd bet they do fine even in the strong winds there as long as it isn't too hot and dry.

I just bought one of these and I’ve been keeping it under a plant light because it’s still not too hot outside. Can they love well under one of those lights?

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

As long as it's not freezing or frosting, Venus flytraps should always be outdoors. They can survive in the short term under lights, but the chance of problems is far greater and even the most expert of indoor growers usually have serious problems eventually. Just move it outside and it will be far happier. It's already mid-May so I don't think there's much of anywhere in the US that is still seeing freezing temps and the chance of frost is gone from most places too.

Can you grow them in a grow tent that has lights that are able to grow peppers and tons of airflow? This way you have air exchange plus higher humidity and good lighting over a terrarium that has stagnant air ?

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

Sure. Venus flytraps can grow in the short term anywhere they get good light. Providing them dormancy (or constantly feeding them) would be a requirement though that might not be easy to do in the grow tent. They are most easily grown outdoors in full sun, but if you're willing to do more work to keep them healthy (quite a bit in most cases), they can grow under good artificial lighting year round.

@tylerdeeks

3 жыл бұрын

@@FlytrapStore thank you very much for the reply. I am in Canada and unfortunately, the winters here get to -40f so outdoors isn't really an option for dormancy. I was thinking of using a minifridge with lights and a humidifier to keep them in dormancy for a few months then slowly transition them back into the grow tent. Do you think this is a viable option? I feed a trap a week with other bloodworms or mealworms atm but I am extremely new to carnivorous plants so I'm sure there will be a learning curve haha.

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

@@tylerdeeks Yes, a mini-fridge for dormancy does work. There are quite a few people who stick their flytraps in the fridge for dormancy each winter. If you'd like to ask more questions and learn more from others, I'd highly recommend joining the FlytrapCare forums: www.flytrapcare.com/phpBB3/

I made a VFT Dente spontaneous purchase. I bought first before I did my research. But now I spent the money and I have this thing now that I have to do my best to keep alive in my 2b Northern Canadian zone. You're saying this is not an indoor plant. I believe you. But indoors it must live (until summer). Questions: How can I give this little guy his best chance? I have him under grow lights and set him in distilled water (he's just a baby). I have a few fungus gnats for him to feast on for now (he's teeny so I think he might eat it). I just got it in the mail and it doesn't look obviously dormant to me; it's getting close to mid-Feb, should I try force dormancy or just leave it for this year? Should I repot it into a bigger pot? Has anyone had success growing VFT indoors for more than a couple years or should I just acquiesce to the reality of its certain death and enjoy it while I can? The dream is to make a tiny indoor carnivorous paludarium of sorts. What are the best plants for that?

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

Жыл бұрын

Hi Chrystalyn - A Venus flytrap can do fine in a sunny south-facing windowsill through the winter months. Alternatively, a good grow lamp set to come on with sunrise and go off with sunset can also work well. And yes, it's best to get it outside during the summer months. There's no need to "force" dormancy. Just give the plant light that matches the natural photoperiod of the sun and it will probably rest for a while before starting growth again in spring. Yes, there are people who have had success growing Venus flytraps indoors exclusively for many years. It can be done but it is extraordinarily challenging compared to outdoor growing. As for making an indoor carnivorous paludarium, I'd probably recommend tropical and sub-tropical sundews (like Drosera capensis) and Mexican butterworts for that, assuming those are two plants you like. We really don't specialize in other types of carnivorous plants so that might be something you should ask other sources to see what they recommend. I'd highly recommend joining the FlytrapCare forum. People there are super friendly, knowledgeable, and many have lots of experience with many different plants and indoor growing setups.

If you dont keep them in water how do you water them if they do seem to be dry. Should i fill a bowl with water and set them in it. Or pour a little water in their soil.

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

6 ай бұрын

Either top watering until water comes out the bottom of the pot or setting them in a bowl works fine. Just be sure to water well before the soil gets entirely dry. Top watering and allowing water to flow out the bottom of the pot has the additional benefit of flushing mineral build-up out of the soil.

What about artificial grow lights? I’m sure you can grow them indoors with strong leds or high pressure sodium. Mine grows well in a bright window sill. It actually turned red from the sunlight. It has full sun unobstructed. Only a screen in between

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

Жыл бұрын

As the saying goes "anything is possible!" Yes, some people do have success growing Venus flytraps indoors, particularly over the short term. However, long-term indoor growing really is a much more challenging proposition than growing them outdoors. There are a plethora of potential issues that can arise when growing indoors that are far less likely to occur when growing outside. It's for that reason we recommend growing them outdoors if at all possible.

I'd like to try and grow mine in a glass terrarium with a small grow light with only long fiber sphagnum from new zealand for substrate misting watering only. Leaving the top open now and again. An ok idea??

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

Жыл бұрын

Unfortunately, it sounds like those growing conditions would result in a very unhealthy flytrap or a dead flytrap in a fairly short period of time. It might work OK, especially if you're diligent about checking the set up for problems and quickly addressing any issues, but more than likely you'll encounter mold and crown rot issues in short order. Venus flytraps are best grown outdoors or in a greenhouse with good air movement.

There are deffo two groups those that say they need to sitting in water and those that do not. So with yours not sitting in water how do you water them? Its said you not suppose to water them from top but i gather you must do, do you spray the tops of pots untill they are damp?

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

Yes, I water my big pots from the top with a spray nozzle set on "shower" mode and water until the water flows out the bottom of the pot. In the winter, I only need to do this once every 10-14 days or sometimes even less. However, in the summer I usually have to water them once every 1-3 days depending on how hot, dry and windy it is here in southern Oregon.

@INCDZONE

3 жыл бұрын

@@FlytrapStore My 4 pots i have are only 8 to 10cm deep cause i brought my VFTs from local hardstores. I was lead to believe from different articles and videos to keep them sitting in water. But now after watching your video I'm left wondering what is best. Hand spray them but no guarantee it be even damping of water though out (as mention in on your forum care guide) or too let them sit in water for about 30 mins and let the water soak up.

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

@@INCDZONE I usually water my big pots from the top until water flows out the bottom. That thoroughly and evenly saturates the soil in the big pots. But I use trays for the rest of my pots. Yes, letting them sit in water for 30-45 minutes and then draining the tray would work well. I've done that in the past by using tubes to siphon the water out after I see that all the pots are saturated. It worked very well.

@INCDZONE

3 жыл бұрын

@@FlytrapStore I do have another question regarding water is it ok to use a water can when water from the top im worried that i drown them or make the traps close up if i give them a good soak

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

@@INCDZONE Flytraps do often close their traps when watered from the top but it isn't a big problem. I always water my big mother pots from the top and traps often close. They reopen in a couple of days.

How do you feel about placing your Venus flytraps in the refrigerator during dormancy?

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

Жыл бұрын

If you have nowhere appropriate to over winter them, a fridge dormancy works well if done properly. However, if at all possible, it is best to grow them in a sunny windowsill or greenhouse that is kept above freezing. They can actually put on quite a bit of size even when dormant if conditions are good. In the fridge, they enter a state of suspended animation and don't grow at all. They do survive though and that's the ultimate goal.

Do you leave the dead fly in the leaf trap? Or remove it after its dead?

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

Жыл бұрын

We never remove anything from the traps but wind and rain sometimes do. These are the same forces that clean traps out in nature. Unless you're growing indoors without good airflow and no UV light, mold growth on dead bugs in traps should be minimal

When are this seasons Flytraps going on sale? I need me some Phalanx in my life.

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

Phalanx is AWESOME! We've put quite a few in stock already this year and they've sold quickly. We should have more available soon but we're super busy with a mega-huge potting effort so we won't do an inventory update until after we're done with that, probably in 8-10 days. If you want to know when any product is back in stock, you can sign up to receive product alert notifications by visiting the product page and clicking "Notify me when this product is back in stock." Here's a link to the Phalanx page: www.flytrapcare.com/store/phalanx-venus-fly-trap

@dogon8878

3 жыл бұрын

@@FlytrapStore yeah. I did that already but didn't receive any notification. I'll try it again. Maybe I wasn't signed in or some other technical mumbo jumbo. I'll keep checking your inventory regardless. Thanks Matt and Leah.

I heard you say that you should only have fly traps indoors for a short time. I have to disagree with you because what if the person has a grow tent with ventilation and a full spectrum grow light? I've seen them being grown for a long time while indoors under a grow light... Can they live on water alone? That's the question I need answered!

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

Жыл бұрын

Even with good lighting and air movement, growing indoors long-term is exceptionally challenging and riddled with problems that aren't encountered when growing outdoors. That's not to say that growing Venus flytraps indoors absolutely can't be done, but that the option to grow outdoors is far easier logistically for most growers. As for feeding, yes, Venus flytraps can live on light and water alone. Just like all other plants that are green, they have chlorophyll and photosynthesize to create their own food. However, they do grow much more quickly if they catch a bug or are fed now and then!

You said that they don't need to be fed, but they will grow best if they do get a meal every now and then. Okay what if I skipped the actual feeding of insects and replace the insects with fertilizer, Will they grow good with no food and just fertilizer?? What would the NPK be for the fertilizer??

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

Жыл бұрын

I never feed my plants nor use any fertilizer and they grow very well. I've experimented with fertilizing flytraps but have not had good results. Other growers have though. A high nitrogen fertilizer is what you'd want to use but at a very low dosage and optimally only apply it foliarly.

How often do you water your vft since it is not sitting on a water tray

@FlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

The frequency with which I water varies a lot on environmental conditions. In southern Oregon, the winters are cool and damp so I only water maybe once every 2 weeks or so. But during the very hot and dry summer months, I typically water every 2-4 days, depending on how hot and dry it gets.

@pseitrends1435

2 жыл бұрын

@@FlytrapStore during hot season you just pour water from the top? Or you spray it?

Wait what part of new Mexico does your friend live in am having troubles with my Flytraps dormancy

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

My friend, Steve, lives in Portales and over winters his flytraps on a heated, south-facing porch.

@thereegamer1560

2 жыл бұрын

@@MattMillerFlytrapStore Thanks Matt I was asking because the temperature here in NM is perfect for dormancy but the icy cold winds causes my Flytraps to die I will keep this in mind

Hi , I'm from South Azerbaycan. Telling me to feed a trap every 15 days . is it correct? Please guide me . Feed all the traps doesn't that destroy the Venuses?

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

Жыл бұрын

It isn't necessary to feed them at all really but if you feed a trap or two a week during the spring, summer and fall, they'll grow more quickly.

I live in north Idaho and we are coming into the winter months having my trap indoors to keep it from freezing but plan to have it out side after last frost. This is 3 months away is there anything else I should do to maintain my trap so it makes it through the winter

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

Sounds like your plan for winter is good. I'd recommend moving the plant outside on days that are above freezing if you are home and able to do so. The more light they get during dormancy, the better. Other than that, just be sure to keep the soil damp with low-mineral or mineral-free water and keep it in a sunny windowsill and it should be fine.

@whitelinefever4865

2 жыл бұрын

@@MattMillerFlytrapStore thanks I have replanted the proper soil mixture and water with distilled water only. Thanks for the reply btw.

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

@@whitelinefever4865 excellent! You're very welcome!!

I know this is an old video but I have a question that I can't seem to find. So I have 2 separate venus fly trap plants that I kept killing and then I changed the soil and type of pot they were in and they are doing much better but now that they actually have good traps whenever they catch a fly after a few days it opens back up and the fly is still in there? Is that normal? Should I remove the fly from it?

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

Жыл бұрын

Hi Kate, yes, it's normal for the exoskeleton (hard exterior) of most bugs, including flies, to remain in the trap after it reopens upon completing digestion of the soft parts of the insect. There's no need to remove the exoskeleton unless you'd prefer not to look at it. You could use a spray bottle to wash it out of the trap or tweezers to pull it out. Or, if you are growing outdoors, the next time it rains it will likely be washed out. However, often times by leaving the insect in the trap another predatory insect (like a spider) will be drawn in to try to scavenge it and be a second meal for the trap! So we usually recommend just leaving the exoskeletons in the traps.

@krothwell817

Жыл бұрын

@@MattMillerFlytrapStore great thank you so much for the info. I have recently taken them out of the water trays and moved them outside here in Maryland and hope they will do better than in the window. Since I watched your video on misconception about venus fly traps!

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

Жыл бұрын

@@krothwell817 They should do great outdoors in Maryland! If you do get a heat wave and temps are over 90-95 or so, they do appreciate shade during the mid-day heat. Otherwise, put them in a sunny location and they should do very well for you!

What type of pots are these?

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

9 ай бұрын

They are polyurethane foam pots. They are the nicest pots I've used for growing Venus flytraps -- sufficiently deep to let them grow to their maximum size and well insulated to provide an excellent growing environment.

It makes sense because the ones at Walmart are not sitting in water and we found 4 healthy ones from there.

What kind of soil do you need

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

Any sort of sphagnum-based soil will work. We use either long-fiber sphagnum or sphagnum peat moss for potting our plants.

You didn’t talk about what kind of pot to put them in. I make cement and hypertufa pots. Can I use those?

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

We talk more about potting and choosing pots here: www.flytrapcare.com/potting-venus-flytraps/ Cement and hypertufa pots can work OK as long as the concrete is sealed on the inside of the pot. The chemicals in cement might leech into the soil and cause problems to mineral-sensitive flytraps.

@AL-vo1ni

2 жыл бұрын

@@MattMillerFlytrapStore I read your post but I didn't see anything about terracotta pots. Is using terracotta a nono for vft or is that a myth as well?

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

@@AL-vo1ni I have no first hand experience growing Venus flytraps in terracotta pots so can't say with 100% certainty. I have seen other growers using them with good results and have read that as long as they are glazed, terracotta pots work well. I've always shied away from them for other pot options that are better insulated and definitely won't leach minerals into the soil.

i moved to the Netherlands there is not alot of sunlight. Should i still keep mine outside?

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

We always recommend growing outside. However, when it is going to freeze or frost they should be brought inside temporarily. Even when the sun is behind clouds or the day is very overcast and/or rainy, there is plenty of photosynthesizable light that gets through to keep plants healthy.

@antonszandorlavey1797

2 жыл бұрын

@@MattMillerFlytrapStore Exactly the answer i was looking for. Thank you!

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

@@antonszandorlavey1797 You're very welcome!

How many flies do they kill a year

I admit it - I got fooled by those who prey on the ignorant. I bought seeds online from a less-than-reputable source and, wouldn't ya know...Sesame seeds. Yep, SO! I turn to you, the keepers of the compendium of all things "Plant, Carnivorous". I'm in Oregon, too, so hopefully I won't be waiting too long. Cheers!

I don’t really have a problem with my vft sitting in water. I also put my vft sitting in water and I don’t have any problems with that. They even grow more prolifically.

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

This is what most people who grow with plants sitting in water will commonly say. It is true that flytraps can grow OK if left sitting in water in most cases, particularly in very hot environments. However, the chance of disease is elevated, particularly if the pot is small, and the growth of a substantial root system to support a large plant is sub-optimal. The fact is they grow much better when they're not left soaking all the time. I'd suggest to try growing both ways: 1) keep moderately moist at all times 2) sitting in water at all times I think you will find that Flytraps undeniably grow better with option 1).

@kyawthuta9058

3 жыл бұрын

@@FlytrapStore yeah I live in a place where it’s scorching hot. I think that’s why. Oh and I will try your method too

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah, even when it is scorching hot, flytraps will grow better if they're not kept water logged. Take a look at the flytraps in these photos: www.flytrapcare.com/phpBB3/post368896.html#p368896 They were grown in 12-inch deep pots with peat moss/sand/perlite soil mix and kept optimally damp instead of sitting in water all the time. The root system gets absolutely huge and this in turn allows for it to support a much larger plant. The rhizome of the plants in those photos are over 2 inches long and each plant has 20+ traps with roots that have reached the bottom of the big, deep pots. I've never seen healthier flytraps than these. Photos are from expert grower Stephen Doonan's collection and were taken in 2009. At the time, I was still growing my flytraps by leaving them sitting in water all the time. After seeing Steve's plants, I changed my growing technique and haven't looked back!

@kyawthuta9058

3 жыл бұрын

@@FlytrapStore Holy cow man! I have never seen rhizomes that big 😨😨😨! They are 5 times as big as mines! So he told you that his secret to big rhizomes was watering only a little bit?

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

Yep! Over watering flytraps keeps the root system tiny, which results in the plant not achieving its full potential in size. So, moderate watering where the soil is always evenly damp but not too wet for too long results in huge root systems, which allows for a much larger overall plant. Also, where Steve lives in New Mexico, there is a HUGE amount of flies available, so his plants pretty much constantly gorge on flies. Couple perfect watering technique with constant feeding and Venus flytraps get very large like the ones you see in the photos in the above-linked forum thread on FlytrapCare.com

Are the pots in the video plastic?

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

16 күн бұрын

Nope. Those are insulated polyurethane foam pots.

Should I spray it with distilled water in the evening or fill the tray it's standing in with some water? How does it best absorb water? Also can you overfeed it with insects? Hoping my neighbors rooftop beekeeping business doesn't take too much of a hit! Hahaha

@FlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

No need to spray Venus flytraps. Doing so can actually lead to crown rot. It's best to keep their tops dry and their feet wet (per se). Always keep the soil damp but not soaking wet too long and don't bother misting them. It isn't really possible to over feed them with insects but if they do catch a lot of insects it can stall their growth until they finish digesting them.

So how do you water them and how much?

@FlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

Always keep the soil damp, never ever dry, but not soaking wet for too long. An easy solution is to use deep pots (10 inches or more) and keep them sitting in 1-2 inches of water at all times. That will ensure that the soil never dries out but that the plant is far enough above the water line that it isn't too wet.

@Jesus-eg3yb

2 жыл бұрын

@@FlytrapStore I watched ALL of your videos. Awesome content! Thank you for creating. Didn’t you say you use the no tray method? So is your top watering and no tray method more for advanced and experience growers, the no tray, no drain?

How can I get one of those pots??

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

Жыл бұрын

Unfortunately, I've not been able to find them available for sale for a very long time.

@pauljohnsonjr8504

Жыл бұрын

@@MattMillerFlytrapStore thank very much are they plastic or terracotta?

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

Жыл бұрын

@@pauljohnsonjr8504 they are insulated polyurethane foam with painted exteriors.

Do I really have to feed them insects indoors in winter?

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

No. Venus flytraps are usually not very responsive during the winter months and their traps are slow to respond especially in cooler weather. Also, there aren't many insects available that time of year. If there are still healthy and responsive traps on the plant, you can try feeding it rehydrated freeze-dried bloodworms but it isn't required.

Can you grow them indoors with a strong full spectrum LED Grow Light?

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

Yes, many growers do successfully grow indoors under LED grow lights. However, it is far more complicated to keep them healthy in the long term. Thus, we recommend growing outdoors if at all possible. It's far less work and the plants are always healthier in the long run.

@nordattack

2 жыл бұрын

@@MattMillerFlytrapStore Any tips for indoors? One they get bigger I may move then to outdoors, but for now I want to grow inside. FYI: I bought the seeds from you. ;)

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

@@nordattack the best tip I could probably offer for growing indoors is to move them outside as soon as you can! 😜 I haven't ever grown under lights for more than a few months at a time so don't have much personal experience to share. I'd highly recommend joining the FlytrapCare forums and chatting with the growers there. Several grow under lights year round.

@nordattack

2 жыл бұрын

@@MattMillerFlytrapStore Mine have been growing under lights for about 3 months since they sprouted and those little guys are getting big fast! I give them 15 hours a day and mist them to keep them moist.

@MattMillerFlytrapStore

2 жыл бұрын

@@nordattack careful with misting. It keeps the surface moist and often leads to crown rot and mold. In my experience, it is best to always water from the tray and avoid watering from the top.

Can I leave it outside all day and then bring it back in at night

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

Sure! As long as they get full sun during the day, you can move them anywhere you'd like at night time to avoid frost and freezes.

👍👍

Eventually they will run out of nitrogen in nutrient deficient soils in which case they would require supplementation in the form of insects in nature

Where are your big heads?

Can they grow in indirect sunlight?

@FlytrapStore

3 жыл бұрын

Not really. They really need full sun or, at the very least, dappled outdoor sunlight under a tree. Growing them indoors or in indirect sunlight will almost always result in them not being very healthy and ultimately succumbing to some disease or illness.

@harrellt1405

3 жыл бұрын

@@FlytrapStore hello, i got mine today, i have the same question, my house covers the sun in the morning and the trees cover the sun at noon. However it gets direct sun when the sun is in between the trees and the house. Basically i get like 4-5 hours of direct sunlight, is that enough ? Ty

terrariums are just bad news period for venus fly traps