Question
I recently received a 20 gallon (tall) aquarium and was planning on turning it into a mixed carnivorous plant terrarium. I was wondering what species (if any) of pitcher plant I could start with that could permanently reside in a terrarium and what other species of carnivorous plants would work best with the pitcher.

A second quick question I have is what would be the best way to grow a Venus flytrap in Kentucky (zone 6). The last one I had died due to a fungus that grew on it during dormancy in the refrigerator.

Answer
Hi Ellery,

Appropriate plants for a terrarium that size would be smaller growing Nepenthes (Asian pitcher plants) such as Nepenthes ventricosa and N. ampullaria.  Australian pitcher plants (Cephalotus) would also do well.  I can also recommend Mexican butterworts  along with Drosera adelae.  Be sure to use fluorescent lights for the light source.  Natural light is too unpredictable.

You have a couple options where you live.  With the proper protection, a Venus flytrap could easily survive a Kentucky winter.  You could also overwinter it in a garage.  You could also try the refrigerator method again, but it's vital you thoroughly spray it with fungicide, and check it through out the winter.  We have more information on the Venus flytrap caresheet page on our website, and an extensive chapter in our e-book, Secrets to Growing Beautiful Carnivorous Plants.

Good Growing!

Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
http://www.cobraplant.com