Venus flytraps are known for capturing insects and bugs. They do best when grown outside, although it is possible to grow indoors if you can create the right conditions. You can purchase Venus flytraps from most nurseries, garden centers, and online plant shops. “Once captured, the plant releases an enzymatic substance that breaks down the trapped prey into nutrients the plant can utilize,” says Bloomscape’s gardening expert Lindsay Pangborn. “If nothing is detected in the trap, it will typically open back up after a day.” “Because of its specific soil requirements, avoid planting it directly into the ground, unless you have created a specific type of bog garden,” says Alfred Palomares, vice president of merchandising and resident plant dad at 1-800-Flowers.com. “You may also grow it in a pond or fountain but keep the crown of the plant above water.” When Venus flytraps are grown with proper care, the entire plant can get as big as five inches in diameter. Palomares shares that depending on the time of year and where you live, you’ll typically need to water every two to four days. Although this plant needs moist conditions, you want to avoid overwatering them. “They should never be allowed to sit in water, as this will cause the roots to rot and eventually kill the plant,” says Stephen Webb, gardening expert and founder of Garden’s Whisper. If you’re used to using tap water for your plants, when it comes to Venus flytraps, you’ll have to go the extra mile to keep them happy. “Be sure to use distilled or reverse osmosis water since tap water can contain minerals that can harm the plant over time,” says Pangborn. If you’re growing your Venus flytrap indoors, make sure to place it next to a sunny window or supplement with a grow light. “Grow lights are not as intense as the real thing, so if this is your only option, leave the light on for 12 to 16 hours per day,” Pangborn recommends. It’s best to move your Venus flytrap outside during the summer months so it can soak up that bright sun. You also don’t want to give your Venus flytrap any added nutrients. In fact, you want to do the opposite and avoid any nutrient-rich soil or amendment. “Never use potting soil, compost, or fertilizer, as these ingredients will kill your plant,” says Palomares. That being said, if you’re growing inside and there aren’t any bugs in your space, you should consider feeding the plant. “A fly, spider, or other small morsel once every few weeks will keep your plant powered up,” explains Pangborn. If you’re wondering what’s the best way to feed your plant, “you can use a pair of tweezers to gently put the bug into the trap,” explains Webb. “If the plant is not hungry, it will remain open for a while and then close up within an hour or two, which means it does not want to eat that specific bug,” Webb adds. You need to pay attention to size because not all bugs or insects are suitable for a Venus flytrap. “A good rule of thumb is to choose insects that are one-third of the size of the trap,” says Palomares. When she’s not writing, she enjoys spending time in her garden, experimenting with ingredients in the kitchen, or spending time by the ocean. See her portfolio on her website.
