Hardening Off Venus Flytraps for Outdoor California Growing

A Santa Barbara grower received VFTs in humidity domes, wants to grow outdoors. Containers say keep humid; advice says grow outside.

Transition Protocol

1. Bright indirect window, no direct sun
2. Gradually open domes over 2 weeks
3. Once at room humidity, move to full sun window
4. Sit in shallow water tray (≤1 inch)
5. Transplant in February to 5-6" pots, 50/50 peat/perlite
6. Move outside permanently — expect some leaf burn, new growth will be strong

Critical Soil Note

Buy peat in bales, not small bags (fertilizer contamination risk).