Venus flytrap care: watering, light and repotting
Also called dionaea, flytrap, carnivorous plant · Dionaea muscipula · Droseraceae family
4 d in winter
How often to water the Venus flytrap?
Allow about 2 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 4 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
Only rainwater or distilled water, always standing in the saucer. Never fertiliser or regular compost. It needs a cool winter (41–50 °F, 5–10 °C).
What light does it need?
The Venus flytrap loves the sun: a south- or west-facing window suits it, ideally less than 3 ft (1 m) from the glass. Without enough light, the stems stretch and growth slows down.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 2 years, ideally in March, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. No fertiliser: it would do more harm than good.
Adult size: 4–6 in (10–15 cm).
Safe for cats and dogs, according to the ASPCA.
Common problems
Traps turning black
Cause: Normal renewal, or tap water. What to do: Cut them off and use only rainwater.
Plant declining in spring
Cause: No winter rest. What to do: Next winter, put it in an unheated room.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the Venus flytrap?
About every 2 days in spring and summer, and every 4 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the Venus flytrap?
The Venus flytrap loves the sun: a south- or west-facing window suits it, ideally less than 3 ft (1 m) from the glass. Without enough light, the stems stretch and growth slows down.
Should you mist the Venus flytrap?
There's no need: indoor air suits it. Wetting its leaves for no reason can even encourage disease.
When should you repot the Venus flytrap?
Every 2 years, ideally in March, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the Venus flytrap safe?
The Venus flytrap is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA. A pet that eats a lot of it may still vomit, so it's best not to let it nibble.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Rather for experienced growers: it's demanding about watering, light or humidity. Some experience helps.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.