Pitcher plant care: watering, light and repotting
Also called monkey cups, carnivorous plant · Nepenthes · Nepenthaceae family
5 d in winter
How often to water the pitcher plant?
Allow about 3 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 5 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.
Rainwater or distilled water only, soil always moist but never standing in water. High humidity is essential.
Misting every 2 days helps keep the air humid around its leaves, especially in winter when central heating dries the house out.
What light does it need?
The pitcher plant likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 2 years, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. No fertiliser: it would do more harm than good.
Adult size: Stems 1.5–3 ft (50 cm–1 m).
Safe for cats and dogs, according to the ASPCA.
Common problems
No new pitchers
Cause: Air too dry or not enough light. What to do: Mist daily and give it bright light.
Pitchers drying out
Cause: Normal ageing. What to do: Cut off the dry pitchers.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the pitcher plant?
About every 3 days in spring and summer, and every 5 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 pitcher plant?
The pitcher plant likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Should you mist the pitcher plant?
Yes, misting every 2 days does it good, especially in winter when heating dries the air. Use soft, room-temperature water.
When should you repot the pitcher plant?
Every 2 years, ideally in April, 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 pitcher plant safe?
The pitcher plant 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.