Do You Need to Feed Venus Flytraps? The Answer Might Surprise You

Question: I fed my flytrap a fly and the trap turned black. Why? Also, what should I feed it in Texas if wax worms aren't available?

Answer: You don't need to feed Venus flytraps. Insects only provide building blocks for new leaves—not energy. The plant gets energy from sunlight. If light, water, and soil aren't right, feeding won't help.

Black traps usually mean the prey was too large (causing rot) or the plant lacked light to digest it. Flytraps catch plenty on their own. Focus on: full outdoor sun, correct soil (peat/perlite), and constant moisture.

See our flytrap care sheet for details.

Happy growing!

— Jacob Farin