Emergency Winter Protection for Frozen Carnivorous Plants

A grower’s outdoor Sarracenia, Dionaea, etc. froze solid overnight. Asks if watering should continue.

Act Before Freezing Next Time

Keep them hydrated. For multi-day freezes: move small collections to garage/shed (≤40°F, above freezing if possible). Protect from wind dehydration. If garage freezes, keep pots on floor (not benches). Spray sulfur fungicide preventatively. Return outside when days stay above freezing.

For ≤1 week freezes: group pots on ground near building, cover with black plastic or Reemay row cover. Remove cover when days warm. Long cold spells need more substantial protection (detailed in our Volume 1 DVD).