Question
Hi Jacob and Jeff

I have just recently gotten a Pinguicula Planiflora and I would like to put it in one of my outdoor bogs that get about 8 hours a day of direct sun. Would this be an appropriate place for this plant?  Also If I do put in one of my outdoor bogs, is this plant winter hardy enough to survive the NY winters under a foot or more of mulch?    

My second question is more general and is regarding Mexican pings.  Right now I water them when I think of it, but I am concerned that that can trigger dormancy. How often should I water my Mexican Pings ?

Thanks again
Nicole
90 miles north of NYC  

Answer
Hi Nicole

Planifolia likes it hot and humid.  It's one of those plants that hates it here in Oregon.  They always rot out on us because of our cool summer nights.  Think lowland Nepenthes.

I'd classify this plant with Pinguicula primuliflora, though primuliflora is slightly more winter hardy than planifolia.  In general, if you live in areas colder than zone 8, treat them like annuals.  Otherwise, pull them indoors to a sunny south windowsill in winter.  A lot of the southern butterworts are prone to fungus when kept under mulch.

In spring and summer, I keep Mexican butterworts in about an inch of water.  I haven't seen butterworts go dormant in summer if the soil dried out for too long.  They simply dry up and die.  Dormancy is triggered by shorter daylight hours and cooler daytime temperatures.

Good growing!
Jaob Farin