Evaluating Growing Conditions for Venus Flytrap, Sarracenia, and Drosera adelae in Alabama

A Central Alabama grower cut a VFT flower stalk, asked about dormancy, and described a soil mix of 85% long-fiber sphagnum (LFS) + 15% vermiculite for VFT, S. purpurea, S. rubra (7–8h sun) and D. adelae (3–4h sun).

Dormancy

Outdoor plants will naturally go dormant with seasonal changes. Safe if they've had full sun (≥6h) all growing season.

Light Assessment

Judge by appearance, not hours:

• VFT: erect leaves, bright red traps.
• S. purpurea: short, stout, bright red pitchers.
• S. rubra: many erect pitchers with yellow hints.
• D. adelae: covered in dew, possibly reddish.

Soil Mix Errors

• Vermiculite leaches minerals—unsuitable.
• LFS compacts over time, reducing aeration.

Correct Mixes

• Standard: 1:1 sphagnum peat : perlite.
• If using LFS: 1:1 LFS : perlite (or pumice).
• Peat is more economical for larger collections.

Repot with minimal root disturbance.