Bought A Venus Flytrap From Wal-Mart, Lowes (Big Box) What Now? Venus Fly Trap Beginner Care Tips!

You went to Wal-Mart or Lowes or some other big box store and bought a venus flytrap on impulse. Now you need help caring for it! Fear not, I bring you venus flytrap care for beginners!
Please support my small business! Buy Soil For Your Carnivorous Plants
carnivorousplantshub.myshopif...
Or it comes in a kit with a planter
carnivorousplantshub.myshopif...
Free Plant Tracker & Venus Flytrap Care Sheet
carnivorousplantshub.com/plan...
------------CONTENTS FOR THIS VIDEO---------------------
0:00 Intro
0:30 Plant Tracker & Printable Care Sheet (FREE!)
2:05 Grow In A Terrarium?
2:52 I Don't Have The Stuff To Repot, What Do I Do?
4:54 Water That Like Button!
5:25 Soil/Substrate Options
7:25 Watering - How Much, What Kind?
9:25 Planter/Pot
11:19 Lighting - Indoor & Outdoor
13:30 Winter Dormancy
14:52 Feeding Venus Flytraps Bugs
16:45 Final Thoughts/Resources
In This Video:
Sansi 36W Bulb - www.sansiled.com/products/par...
Yescom 225 Light Panel (No longer Sold, recommend Barrina below instead.)
Barrina 2ft Grow Light - amzn.to/3HnPRso
Barrina 4ft Grow Light - amzn.to/3NnILYX
Zero Water Pitcher W/ TDS Meter 10 Cup - amzn.to/3AkEr2t
Watering Can - amzn.to/3c2jRd0
TDS Water Meter - amzn.to/3qkNriZ
Long Fiber Sphagnum Moss - amzn.to/3c6WhLY
Nice Looking White Plastic Planter - amzn.to/2E3iiyD
Buy carnivorous plants from the most trusted and experienced carnivorous plant nursery around. Click below to explore their wide selection! Use code CPHUB at checkout for a 10% discount!
Use Code CPHUB for a 10% discount!
All Plants - www.californiacarnivores.com/...
Easy Beginner Plants - www.californiacarnivores.com/...
Venus Flytraps - www.californiacarnivores.com/...
Pings - www.californiacarnivores.com/...
Sarracenia - www.californiacarnivores.com/...
Cape Sundew - www.californiacarnivores.com/...
Cephalotus - www.californiacarnivores.com/...
Nepenthes - www.californiacarnivores.com/...
Seeds - www.californiacarnivores.com/...
Bog Kits - www.californiacarnivores.com/...
Soil & Supplies - www.californiacarnivores.com/...
Autographed Savage Garden - www.californiacarnivores.com/...
Grow Lights I Recommend
Sansi 36W Bulb - www.sansiled.com/products/par...
Sansi 24W Bulb - www.sansiled.com/products/par...
Other Sansi Grow Light Solutions - www.sansiled.com/collections/...
Sansi Deals - www.sansiled.com/pages/deals?...
Lights For Wire Shelfing
Barrina 2ft Grow Light - amzn.to/3HnPRso
Barrina 4ft Grow Light - amzn.to/3NnILYX
Wire Plant Shelf I Use - amzn.to/3LxxPWE
Carnivorous Plant Supplies & Equipment
My Favorite Mister - amzn.to/3kPRwe2
Long Fiber Sphagnum Moss - amzn.to/3c6WhLY
Nice Looking White Plastic Planter - amzn.to/2E3iiyD
My Favorite Mister - amzn.to/3kPRwe2
Watering Can - amzn.to/3c2jRd0
TDS Water Meter - amzn.to/3qkNriZ
Reverse Osmosis Kit - amzn.to/2OjDk0x
Maxsea Fertilizer (Amazon) - amzn.to/3ebmawU
I may earn a small commission for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial, and/or link to any products or services from this video. Your purchase helps support my dream of opening a carnivorous plant nursery in my community and helps bring you more great carnivorous plant content. Thank you for your support!
Make sure to check out my website where you can see more carnivorous plant information and care guides. www.carnivorousplantshub.com/
Follow me on Instagram, / carnivorousplantshub
Check out my Pinterest, / carnivorousplantshub
Venus flytraps are incredibly cool. They are a hard plant not to buy when you see one at the big box stores. I'm really happy that you did buy it and came here to see advice on how to care for it. These carnivorous plants are amazing and I don't think you will regret your decision.
Venus Flytrap Care Videos:
Ultimate Venus Flytrap Care Guide (Long Version): • Venus Flytrap Care: Co...
Ultimate Venus Flytrap Dormancy Guide: • Ultimate Venus Flytrap...

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Get your next venus flytrap or other carnivorous plant from the most experienced and knowledgeable carnivorous plant nursery around, California Carnivores. You can get 10% off when you use CPHUB at checkout. They have an amazing selection of incredible venus flytrap cultivars and other amazing carnivorous plants. Go check out their collections now, Venus Flytraps - www.californiacarnivores.com/collections/venus-flytraps-dionaea-muscipula?aff=7 Other Carnivorous Plant Collections - www.californiacarnivores.com/collections?aff=7

[@censusgary]

“Don’t try to grow it in a terrarium” is the best advice ever for growing a Venus Flytrap. It’s also very helpful to learn that they aren’t tropical plants, they like direct sun, and they don’t need high humidity. All of this contradicts other advice I’ve gotten.

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

It's crazy how much bad info is out there for vfts...

[@croissant_productions]

I got my first one about 8 months ago, was taking bad care of it, bc I didn’t know any better and I tried to repot it because all the traps were turning black. And I’m stupid and put it in dirt for like 5 minutes, then I found your channel and fixed everything and then I just hoped. And yesterday I went outside to water my other Venus flytrap my parents got me an I actually saw some new growth!! So Peter (the Venus flytrap) is still alive 🥳 thanks to ur videos! (Btw I watch ur videos all the time when I’m bored) Thanks!!

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

That's awesome to hear! I'm glad you found the channel! I hope all your plants grow big and strong, thank you for supporting my channel!

[@imtherandom1-780]

Is it still alive?

[@croissant_productions]

@@imtherandom1-780 sorry for the really late reply but yes

[@croissant_productions]

@@imtherandom1-780 i’ve gone through dormancy twice now

[@Octilious11934]

​@@croissant_productionsbro you're just like me I've killed a lot of Venus Flytrap bc I didn't know any better I watered mine with tap water xd

[@toxicavenger7073]

Bought mine a few weeks ago and now I'm obsessed with all carnivorous plants!

[@potatoastorga6570]

You’re so awesome! I’m glad I found your videos! I’m a first time Venus flytrap owner so I’m learning a lot from you. I appreciate you! Looking forward to seeing any and every videos you have :)

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Thank you so much for your kind words, really means a lot to me! I appreciate you checking the videos out and supporting my channel. More videos to come!!!

[@brogansolt657]

these have been realy helpful. ive been doing research on these plants for three days before i buy one and these videos have taught me a lot of things.

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

That's great, I 'm glad they have been helpful!

[@ellium1147]

A lot of good information, including in the description. Thank you!

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Of course!

[@ericaacosta2292]

I'm so glad I've found your page. Thanks for all the info

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Of course Erica, I'm equally glad you are here!

[@Fishyz.]

I just got a Venus flytrap from Lowe’s and I hope he does well! :) thank you for the informational vid !

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Good luck!!

[@usuallyangry]

This is my third flytrap, and I'm doing my research this time. I have a big jug of distilled water, and I followed your advice and put it in new soil immediately-soil that I'm confident has no added fertilizers or nutrients. I also cut off some of the traps and leaves that were obviously dead. It already spread out and seems a lot happier.

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

That is awesome! Just make sure that the new "soil" was peat moss and not like garden soil. Garden soil has natural nutrients in it which flytraps can't live in. Peat moss is typically much better about having less nutrients and salts.

[@usuallyangry]

​​@@CarnivorousPlantsHub You were right, even what seemed like barren and safe soil was filled with nutrients. I caught it in time and kept it in a jar of distilled water until I had access to peat moss. Unfortunately, winter came and they both died despite my attempts to keep them from the cold. I'm not sure what I did wrong. Probably overwatered them, that's what tends to happen to my plants in the winter.

[@hannajones1568]

I’m here because I just bought my first Venus fly trap today at Walmart 😌 very informative video thank you

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Right on, I think we spoke on Insta, good luck Hanna!

[@alfredoguevara9001]

i just got that same small one today at lowes, was pretty excited lol, thanks for the advice.

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Good luck Alfredo, they can be amazing plants. When you are ready to upgrade to a cultivar, go check out California Carnivores online. They have some really amazing venus flytraps in stock! You can get 10% off with the code CPHUB! www.californiacarnivores.com/collections/venus-flytraps-dionaea-muscipula?aff=7 Also, let me know if you have any questions!

[@xavierrenteria8672]

You’re awesome keep the videos coming , I’m guilty as charge I just got off work and saw it when I was about to walk out the doors

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Lol, I think a majority of first time users are guilty of this. No worries, it's the intro into the hobby. It's a good thing.

[@austincreates5034]

Bit late to the party, but yeah since shortly ive got a venus fly trap and i really love it ^^ thanks to you i know now how to care for it and i try my best. I do take it outside every single day and bring them inside during the night. I was so worried in the beginning that it wouldnt grow well because the traps that were there are so droopy :( sadly got it that way too. But since recently, since theres full blown sun during the days and i put them there, there has been a tiny new growth there ^^ im so happy about that and thank you so much for you videos, love them! ^^

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

That's great! Nothing is better than seeing that new growth come along! I hope your flytrap grows big and strong!!

[@miamianz]

yes i need to download this care sheet.

[@christianludwig1074]

Just brought home "Vincent", a Rocket Farms plant from Walmart. I hope he thrives. 🤞🌱 Thanks for the video!

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Good luck Christian, let me know if you have any questions with Vincent!

[@tristanmoudubul7733]

Your video is so cool by the way, thank you for all of thoses informations

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Of course! So happy it was helpful!

[@SuperPokefan15]

Well I'm here cause I just love your videos 😅😅

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

I appreciate you so much! Thank you for your support!!

[@johnjwedrall4290]

Very helpful video, thanks 👍👍

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Of course!

[@LOOTLABELS]

Yes Lowe’s! Only one alive / dying trap extremely droopy and black under shelves last one used distilled water and didnt feed it for a few weeks until another sprouted than fed it a fly. About 2-3 months later entering summer after extensive care. big traps along with them Fully sprouting seeds! They were on sale for around 2 dollars. They got out their dormancy in April and slightly bigger traps good luck!

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Woo hoo, love hearing success stories! Good work!

[@LOOTLABELS]

@@CarnivorousPlantsHub Thx!!

[@isaiahhesslup8463]

Thank you very much for the information.

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Of course, glad to help!

[@michaelreed9805]

Excellent! Thank you!

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Of course!

[@andilemtwana1871]

new subscriber, I'm about to get my first Venus fly trap... nervous but excited

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Woo hoo, good luck. How exciting!

[@TheParanormalWitch]

Just got one & was literally about to "TAP" water it...thank you

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Oh good! I'm glad you saw the video!!

[@TheParanormalWitch]

Question I "saved" my plant from a big box and it won't open

[@risksandhope1849]

Super happy to hear that I can feed them meal worms, I already keep meal worms and crickets on a regular rotation for my leopard gecko. I wonder if, for particularly small fly traps, flightless fruit flies would work?

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

I notice that when I propagate and the little tiny flytraps come up, they do a pretty good job catching gnats and fruit flies. For the first year or so, that would probably be okay, but after that they definitely need something a little bigger.

[@markophobe1534]

9:30 This is the same pot I use for my VFT’s! I bought these at Dollarama here in Canada. They come in a 3 pack and are amazing little plastic pots for carnivorous plants!

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Yes, I just used mine to plant some Sundews. Love them!

[@jackietabackie2824]

I'm experimenting with coconut coir. Thank you for the videos and information! Edit for spelling

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

I'd love to hear your findings! Let me know!

[@stevejenkins6924]

Thanks Buddy!

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Of course Steve, thanks for watching!

[@Faye_vr]

Thank you for this!!!!

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Of course, thank you for watching!

[@OfficialGrellSimp]

I was gonna buy one from Walmart but i went to my local plant store, they had a whole section for carnivorous plants, its super healthy!!

[@OfficialGrellSimp]

I've never had a carnivorous plant before tho so I'm scared I'm gonna kill it.

[@brandonsuttner363]

you do a good job with your videos and I hope you open a carnivorous plant nursery

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Thank you Brandon, that really means a lot!

[@MsPangY]

Just got my 1st one 3 days ago!! Exciting!! 😮😮😮😮😮😮😮

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Woo hoo! Good luck!

[@MsPangY]

@@CarnivorousPlantsHub thx!

[@StormChaserApril]

Ty so much! I got a few flytraps at lowes yesterday and they won't eat. Seeing how bad the soil was from lowes environments I will flush my flytraps immediately

[@Kaylie_Qibs]

I was so worried about the water! But I have one of those pitches for my crested gecko! I’m so happy 😅

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Right on! Zero water to the rescue. Love my zero water pitcher!

[@dtpgameing5096]

Yo its the same dude from a seperate video where i asked about creek water and now my fly trap be TRIPPIN so i just wanted to say thanks.~ P.S i got my fly traps at a farmers market local

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

I am that dude! lol. Glad the creek water worked out, its always nice having a consistent source of water that is easy and convenient.

[@jarrennorberto180]

I love Venus fly traps are my favorite plants

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Mine too!!

[@ChantelMariesStories]

Yes I bought two and I also bought that carnivorous soil from Amazon you used in one of your other videos ,only thing is I'm Scared if I repot them there gonna DIE cause I don't have a TDS reader .I did take them out the death cube but there still in the same potter an same soil.

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

It's hard to say without a TDS Meter. If you have access to a Walmart, you can get one when you purchase a Zero Water pitcher, which also produces great zero water for venus flytraps. IT's a gamble, the pot could be 250 ppm or 70ppm. The 70 will probably be alright but the 250 is a problem. No way to know for sure without the TDS meter.

[@jessh9988]

I got 2 yesterday for the fungus gnats in my plant room! I pray I can keep them alive!

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Jess, these plants are amazing! However, if you are trying to help control fungus gnats, flytraps are not the answer. However, there is a carnivorous plant that will be a huge help! Pinguicula or sundews will be way better for this purpose. Check this video out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y4HWhpqkrMl1ZqM

[@jessh9988]

@Carnivorous Plants Hub you know I have heard that but was kinda being cheap about it lol!! Even if they don't work I grew up around them and love them so I will try to grow them and also look into the sundews! Thanks so much for the reply, been binging your videos on the fly traps. So beautiful 😍

[@jessh9988]

@Carnivorous Plants Hub I just received a Mexican Ping and a drosera hybrid, im so excited! The fly traps seem to be doing well on my window sill (no lack of sun in AZ) I was so worried they'd burn up but they are taking sun that I've seen burn succulents, very impressed but prob gonna move them outside soon I'm worried the window will magnify the sun and burn it! Thanks for your videos I never would have kept them alive without you!!

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Hey Jess! So excited for you! The window actually dillutes thr sun. For Arizona I recommend morning sun then maybe indirect sun in afternoon. At least during summer. During early spring, it can probably stay in sun all day. Just let it acclimate slowly, don't go full sun right off the bat. Start with 4 hours week one, then jump an hour each week until it's full sun. Keep the the tray of water full in that Arizona heat!

[@jessh9988]

@@CarnivorousPlantsHub Thanks so much, will do!!

[@Hello_Fuckers0]

Idk that plants can be happy but I'm pretty sure the 5 big box flytraps I bought became very happy once I got them in peat and perlite mix and outside in full sun with my Sarracenia. The 5 death cubes became 50 flytrap plants with separations lol all my friends that wanted one got at least one 🤣

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Getting them out of the store into the sun definitely makes them happy. I've had to give some of my flytraps away to friends too!

[@plantguy9]

They can also grow in long fibered sphagnum moss and perlite mix as well.

[@pcpunisher]

I started mine which where small ones. Starting w/ mill worms but the plant is staying closed. soon, I will take it out by the garbage bin where the flies are at.

[@wildbill7267]

Definitely want to keep a Venus flytrap indoors with a grow light because I want it to earn its keep by eating bugs in my living room in the summer

[@albertcastaneda8832]

I bought a venus fly trap at a local grocery store and from November 30 to February 28 I put it In the refrigerator to make it go dormant when I took it out It sprouted new traps

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

That's amazing!!

[@HexZall]

I have noticed that Rocket Farms has the best in shape VFTs from death cubes. I actually managed to grow them very well and have started using them to create some personal cultivars.

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

I came across a brand new shipment of Rocket Farms venus flytraps at Wal-Mart the other day, they were in beautiful shape. They were $6 each, which is a pretty good deal for typicals. But you could tell each one had at least a few flytraps per plant. They looked really healthy, hoping someone out there found them, then stumbled on my video! Lol.

[@HexZall]

Yeah, I have had my fair share of death cube carnivorous plants over the years, and when I discovered Rocket Farms, I was pleasantly surprised at the general quality of their flytraps. Although their care guide isn't perfect, as long as you can get it out of the container and repot it, the plants are pretty much perfect. After their first dormancy with me, they quickly became some of the biggest flytraps I own. While I don't usually reccomend buying death cube VFTs, for Rocket Farms' VFTs, I will make an exception. They are pretty affordable, and are in much better condition than you would expect from normal box store VFTs.

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

I'm glad for death cubes, mostly because it's many peoples window to carnivorous plants. They aren't always the best kept or easiest to rescue, but many people out there would have never joined the hobby if they didn't see one at Lowes or Wal-Mart. Most people get upset that big box sells them, but they are being a bit selfish and not considering the hobby as a whole. The more interest in the plants the better it is for the entire community. Most people figure out pretty quickly if carnivorous plants are for them after a death cube purchase. Lol!

[@Jesus-eg3yb]

Old friend . . . Here going through your videos again.

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Hey! Thank you again! Always good to hear from you friend!

[@yukisoma2347]

I got my first Venus fly trap at Walmart I live in Texas and we’re in the fall season. What’s the best way to take care of it this time of season ? I’ve seen some videos really helpful, but Texas weather is unpredictable. Sometimes we have a lot of rain where it floods is it OK if I put it in a hanging pot and bring it inside when it’s raining a lot or just leave it outside on my porch?

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

You want to try and keep the venus flytrap under 50 degrees if possible during winter dormancy. I'd try to avoid leaving them out in the rain for long periods of time, that much exposure to water can rot the crown of your plant, especially when it's colder outside.

[@pnz4aufsh]

Great question for ya. How about well water? I live in NC but not in the same region as fly traps grow, so it's not the same water table.

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Can't say for sure, it just depends on how much salt and minerals are in the ground. The only way to know for sure is to get a TDS meter and to measure the water. If it's under 50 PPM, you should be good to go!

[@OverlordShamala]

When they bring these from the nurseries, they are still in good shape. The issue is the time they are spent in dark shade at the stores shelves is what masses them up, & often are watered with regular tap water. I once asked a store clerk why they are putting them in the darkest place of the shelves... they need light. The store clerk response is that they eat hamburger & don't need light.

[@theshinynoivern3340]

I like to grab the sad plants, i already knew a good vit about the venus fly trap before i got it at Ingles and knew they would die so grabbed on to save, hes gonna have a good life now😤

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Its so hard not to grab the sad plants.

[@tigergumby]

I also grab the sad plants. Lol. It's so rewarding to see them when they start thriving!

[@Lauresaurus96]

Can you use coconut coir in place of peat moss? I have that on hand, but not peat moss…

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

I have seen mixed results with coco coir. I think it depends on the source. I've seen people say they used it but had to soak for 3 days before using. It might be worth a shot but I wouldn't do it without a TDS meter. I'd stick with peat or long fiber sphagnum.

[@HollieMM]

Lol Canadian Tire impulse buy... sorta, I'd been planning on getting one whenever I saw them again. Never been excited for fly season before!

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Ha! Flytraps feast on flies when healthy! Fun to watch! Good luck!

[@HollieMM]

@@CarnivorousPlantsHub it's healthy but I'm in Canada and we only have flies for the warm part of the year. Another two or three months.

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

I feel you Hollie, I'm not so far away from Canada, I live in North Idaho. Couple hours from Canada. I'm also eagerly awaiting fly season. Lol.

[@Tammissa]

I cut the flowers that were growing on my Venus flytrap about a month ago. Unfortunately my plant seems to be not doing well since. I’m feeding blood worms, it’s in good light, water is good. Not sure why my plant isn’t doing well.

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Usually, the first thing to check is the light. Is it in full sun, or are you using grow lights?

[@croissant_productions]

Is it ok if the plant is a little wobbly when I touch it in the pot bc I tried to have just a little bit of the rhizome showing

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Ya, that's totally fine, they will be like that until the roots really take. The smaller the flytrap the more wobbly they are right after repotting.

[@vsocarras27]

Hi I’m back my darlingtonia is somehow alive and well despite living in Miami fl and growing it outside so much so it’s starting to grow a new pitcher coming out of it’s dormancy

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Thats awesome! They can be tricky to grow, hope you continue to have good luck with them!

[@vsocarras27]

Thanks

[@guineapigcareforbeginners3978]

The SANSI 36W Daylight LED Plant Bulb E26 you have, can it be hooked up to an industrial lamp? I have one that 5 1/2 inches I bought from Lowes that can only go up to 75W. I'm using it for a GE grow light for my plants but I believe it's either not strong enough or it's not good. My VFTs, sundews and my cobra lily are showing signs of being starved from light and I need a better bulb soon.

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Should be fine as long as it fits e26!

[@guineapigcareforbeginners3978]

@@CarnivorousPlantsHub Ok, I'll see on buying it from the link you provided in the description, I like what it can do and it seems stronger enough to help my plants. It's a temporary setup though because I want to grow my plants outside once the temperature stays consistent and warm. Thank you!!!

[@koyaikigai]

@@guineapigcareforbeginners3978 did the bulb work can you send me a link to buy the lamp you have that fits the bulb?

[@preciousharvey9264]

Hi! Thank you for the information! My one question is about feeding. Ants are okay to feed it right?

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

For the most part, I think so. I have seen reports of thr acidity of thr ant can have negative impacts on the trap. It won't kill the plant, but might hurt that particular plant. It wouldn't be my bug of choice, but I wouldn't worry about it if they get in there naturally.

[@preciousharvey9264]

Thank you!

[@teresashinkansen9402]

I've seen most people who uses white light grow lights give VFT's around 15-25k lux but I been wondering, what happens if I give them more? I ask because I haven't seen anyone do it and according to Wikipedia direct noon sunlight is around 109k lux. So wouldn't it be good to give them something closer to that? I got a plant a week ago and I just placed it under a 8W LED spotlight (600 lumen 3200K°), it is around 5 inches away form it and covers the plant well, at the center i get a reading of around 85k lux and around 65k lux at the edge of the pot, if I hold a sheet of white paper over the VFT its blindingly bright on par with the sun, yet I feel like the plant heats up significantly less than in direct sunlight, I guess due much lower IR content. Do you have any experience with this kind of artificial light intensities?

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

I'm honestly not a light guru. When it comes to lighting I just have a decent feel for when the plant looks light starved and when they look like they are getting too much light. I then adjust accordingly. I have had venus flytraps get too much sun, but that's usually when they are acclimating. If in the outdoors from spring, they acclimate well and can handle really hot temperatures with direct sun. I've had mine in 110 degrees before for about a week and they did just fine.

[@rramos5611]

My venus flytrap when I planted it in a new pot it was like not good but now it is healthy

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

It's really common for them to go through a shock period before thriving again. Happy to hear yours are doing well!

[@ACAquatics]

I use rice hulls for all aeration rather than perlite. Will peat moss and rice hulls work?

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

I'll be honest Adam, I have never used rice hulls. I'd just check for TDS with a meter to be sure. Leave some rice hulls in some water overnight, test the water in the AM to make sure they aren't leaching dissolved solids into the water.

[@HelgrafFireHammer]

I heard you mention how we can soak and feed the flytrap dried mealworms But doesn't the thing that's being eaten need to move inside the trap for it to close fully? How would you emulate that with a dead insect?

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Great question! Yes, a secondary response is required from the trapped insect for digestion to be triggered. Wait for the trap to close then for about a few minutes afterward, gently massage the outside of the trap. Do this on and off for the next 30 minutes afterward and you can trigger the digestion.

[@BadgerBabyBoy]

My trap had his first meal since I got her home A smallish fly But now about almost a week later the trap has reopened before even digesting it I tried to realise it by touching a few of the inner hairs but it won’t close What do I do? The water I feed it has 3 ppm & I water it from the bottom tray as the plant shop guy told me to

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Its important to understand that the flytrap does not 100% consume the entire insect. It actually leaves behind an exoskeleton. They close, release a digestive enzyme, it absorbs as much of the nutrients it can then after about a week, it does open back up. It actually sounds like your trap is functioning exactly as it should!

[@ka2362]

Which peat moss is best at lowes? I know miracle grow has the fertilizers

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Premier is pretty good. Measures at about 70 PPM out of the bag. Pretty easy to rinse and use. I'm sure the peat varies by region. Just look at the back at the ingredients, make sure that ingredients just says "sphagnum peat moss". If there are any additives, don't bother. You just want 100% pure sphagnum peat moss.

[@plantguy9]

The brand doesn't really doesn't matter as long as it has no fertilizer in it.

[@anthonycharneux5027]

Hello, do you think we can grow these plants in areas like mine where there's not really sun at all ? Thanks for your answer :)

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

You would have to be a little more specific on not really sun at all. They do need a lot of light, if grown outdoors, they will not do well in a low sun area. they need at least 8 hours of sun a day. But should get probably 10-12 hours a day.

[@anthonycharneux5027]

@@CarnivorousPlantsHub Oh I see. thanks very much

[@Wulfenite295]

I buy ro water and it’s much cheaper than distilled water. I was spending 10 dollars for five gallons of water. But I can get five gallons of ro water for 1.30$

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

I've always seen the RO stands and have almost stopped a few times to go get some RO water. If this is close and convenient, I strongly recommend it!

[@DJJumpdancer]

I bought seeds online I dont know how old they are should I put them in the fridge ? for how long ?

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

I'm sorry if this is late, but you do not need to put flytrap seeds in the fridge. No stratification is necessary. You can go straight to the ground.

[@CookingwithPonzu]

so I got a venus fly trap, and the traps dont show any Pink in their mouths... do I feed the traps yet? or do i just water with fertalizer? im not sure what to do... any advice is appreciated

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Hey Jake, did you watch the entire video. It really goes over everything. No fertilizer. It will burn the roots. The red comes from light, the more light they have the more red they turn! If you keep your trap outside, feeding them is probably not necessary.

[@madelinemitchell9396]

Would water that’s been boiled work the same ?

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

No, unfortunately, boiling can kill harmful bacteria for drinking but it does not eliminate the dissolved solids. The steam the rises from boiling works, which is essentially distilled. But boiling alone does not make it good for venus flytraps.

[@BIGBlazyn]

What if you boiled tape water? Would that be ok?

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

No, unfortunately not. Boiling kills bacteria but it doesn't get rid of dissolved solids.

[@alligaming.7515]

Is peat moss and sphagnum mix good too?

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

You bet! I see a lot of people making a hybrid sphagnum moss and peat moss mix.

[@Youngone78]

Can you use the Sphagnum moss from a hobby shop?

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Hey Tracy, I'm really not sure to be honest, do you have an example of the moss? I've never seen it at hobby shops (probably because I don't go to hobby shops often).

[@MateoJimenez-mk5pr]

I had a Venus fly trap in a death cube and took it out thinking it was bad but it saved it

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Yes, for transport and at the store only. Once they are home, they want out!

[@croissant_productions]

Random question: is it ok if the stems on traps are turning a little red? (It happens a little on new growth too)

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

That can be tough to answer because different cultivars are more red than others. Sometimes, too much red can be an indication of them burning from too much light. This is common when they don't get acclimated correctly. But, it also could just be a more red type of flytrap and will just be more red than others.

[@croissant_productions]

Thanks so much for the reply. it’s not like crazy red I was just wondering bc when I got it from Lowes it was like super green from probably not enough sunlight

[@croissant_productions]

Still a bright green tho

[@FamineYT]

does the indoor lamp need the reflector?

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

If you are referring to the Sansi Bulb, no, it doesn't require the aluminum lamp. It actually screws into any standard lamp. I just prefer these clamp shop lights.

[@arisuneakku]

So I got this really nice Venus flytrap plant from Trader Joe's and it has about over 10 heads, while I was trying to remove it through the long plastic tube, i accidentally set off 3-4 of the heads. Is it going to die from stress?

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

That shouldn't kill it. If it has poor care, it can contribute to it dying. However, you watched this video and you are prepared to give it great care, right?!? Lol. I accidently set off traps all the time, especially when I repot them. It's not enough to kill them. There would have to be other factors.

[@Lillith8810]

Weird question maybe - Since the soil has moss mixed in, will the moss grow on top of the soil on its own? Or is extra moss added on top after planting?

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Hey Lillith! Just to clarify your question, are you referring to it being peat moss? Peat moss has moss mixed in? If so, yes. Peat moss can grow moss in the right conditions.

[@Lillith8810]

@@CarnivorousPlantsHub I think so, I got the Organic Earth carnivorous soil mix that was linked in this video description kzbin.info/www/bejne/oGe4nJmmjNWYbbcsi=VxJE5X-DpZOmRB2x

[@Its._.christian12]

Hi I am new I got my venus flytrap and it always has its mouth closed does that mean anything ? Pls reply

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

It's hard to say. However, a healthy flytrap head should not be closed all the time. They might stay closed for a week or so, but should open back up. It's possible that head is not functioning properly anymore. New ones should stay open until triggered.

[@dand412]

Your website keeps trying to get tme to download additional apps to view your PDFs is there just a direct link to it

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

You must be clicking an ad. You should just put in name and email and it gets sent. No additional downloads.

[@azuritygaming]

Can you mix in some orchid mix instead of orchid moss?

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

No, I wouldn't use an orchid mix. It usually has bark and some regular soil in it. It's definitely not mineral and nutrient free. The moss is just sphagnum moss, it says orchid moss, but there is nothing special about it.

[@lorencarver9531]

I transplanted my venus fly trap with moss and peralite.. The soil turned green on top and my plant is dying or dead 😢 I tried to feed it meal worms but it never digested them. Also, I didn't know you're only spades to feed one at a time 😔 I did water it with distilled water, and the pot I chose was a self watering one so I put the water in the bottom, and I watered it from the top a few times.

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

They will typically only eat insects when in good health. It's hard to know for sure what is wrong with the plant without seeing photos. Maybe not enough sun/light. That is probably the most common mistake I see that leads to their death. Sounds like you had the right substrate and water, but if they don't get enough light, it won't matter. Hope it can make a recovery!

[@scottshaffer7296]

Would the one dollar bags of soil from the ministry dollar store be safe

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Hey Scott, it's impossible to say without knowing what's in those bags. But... I'm assuming it's probably a potting or top soil, which will not work. Needs to be a peat/perlite mix or long fiber sphagnum moss. You can check out this video to see which one I prefer. I'd stick with one of those two though. I just can't speak for that soil without knowing what is in it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mKnYeoeAaM1ka68

[@pamelataylor453]

What about rain water for the plant?

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

In the majority of situations, yes, rain water is great! There are some situations where rain water does contain too many dissolved solids. The only way to know for sure is to measure with a TDS meter. Most rain water is fine though.

[@jessicacartee3706]

I put my email in .. how long does it take to get the email with the sheet?

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Should be within a few minutes. If you didn't get it, email me at [e-mail] and I'll forward them to you!

[@pjjaco4177]

Can you use rain water?

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Most of the time yes! As long as you are in an area that's not highly polluted, rain water should be fine!

[@traviswalker6248]

The link to your cheat cheet is broken. Is ther another location we can download it from?

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Should be back up now, thank you for pointing it out!

[@ammrro]

I got one from lowes and the traps are not responding 😔

[@johndoe-sq2ds]

what if in florida there is no winter its always sunny and humid

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

I've seen some of the most amazing flytraps from Florida. I know that people in Florida have acclimated their plants to go dormant in warmer temperatures. I would recommend joining a local carnivorous plant group for your area on FB or Instagram and seeing what people in your specific area do for dormancy. Make sure they can prove they have amazing plants, lot of keyboard warriors out there like to spit stuff they have heard but can't prove they've actually done it.

[@HieiZx]

How did u remove the tubes

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

They usually come off pretty easy. If not, you can just cut them away. I like to cut the bottom out and just pull the plant out from the bottom.

[@superjrhd21]

Can I use my tap water for my Venus Fly Traps? My tap water reads at 30 ppm.

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

For sure! Should work fine! Just make sure to flush the plant occasionally with some distilled water.

[@superjrhd21]

@@CarnivorousPlantsHub thanks I’m also planning to get a sundew soon. Just waiting for them to restock.

[@benchino9616]

Can I use a brita filter?

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Hey Ben, Brita do not filter out the necessary PPM. I would recommend a Zero water pitcher. Check out this video I just did all about Zero water pitchers. I do speak to Brita a bit n the video as well! With a zero water pitcher you get a TDS meter to test your water as well! kzbin.info/www/bejne/p2Ssmp5rYqdkkJY

[@tristanmoudubul7733]

Is rain water good for them ?

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

The majority of the time yes. IN some areas that have pollution the rain can contain dissolved solids and be bad for flytraps. The only way to know with 100% certainty is to get a TDS meter and measure the water at room temperature.

[@dillchill856]

But what if mine comes with sphagnum moss

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Sphagnum moss is just fine as substrate! I don't prefer it, but many people do.

[@annaboi4832]

Should I leave the dead traps or pull them off?

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

I like to try and keep up and get them off. Sometimes you can just tug them and they pop off, other times you will want to cut them to make sure you don't uproot the plant. Keeping the black ones off can prevent some mold from growing and can prevent rot. Plus, it's just nicer looking!

[@annaboi4832]

@@CarnivorousPlantsHub okay thank you (:(:

[@blueskypainters2916]

Step one save your receipt. Step two return to Home Depot every week lol

[@ibritbrat]

I have been wanting this plant since I was a child. I finally got one a couple days ago, I am in an apartment and I am so scared I’m going to kill it. I don’t have anything I need to repot it.

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

It's probably safe in it's current substrate for a bit! At least until you can get something else.

[@ibritbrat]

@@CarnivorousPlantsHub there was something wrapped around it, and it was placed in the center of the soil. I tried leaving it be thinking maybe that was supposed to be that way, but I clipped it off and it had like string tied to it. I’m thinking maybe they were like root protection?? There’s a couple new traps growing. I’m so nervous about it. I like propagating and this is one I truly want to see thrive and survive. Mine came from California and I live in Texas. Is that too much change for it?

[@avdhutpore6462]

Venus fly trap care sheet link is not working I not reaseve any email

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Oh no, so sorry! Can you find me on Instagram and shoot me a DM, I'll resend it to your email. Carnivorous Plants Hub on Instagram too!

[@avdhutpore6462]

Sorry sir but I am not using Instagram

[@avdhutpore6462]

And one more thing that I have get venus fly trap seeds yesterday but I have search every ware but I can not get sphagnum moss so can I grow in soil mix

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

You can grow seeds in sphagnum peat moss. I actually have a full video all about growing from seeds, check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/fYnMqIKQa6mrjrc

[@jarrennorberto180]

I have a Venus fly trap growing

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Right on, I hope it gets big and strong!

[@highmaintenance8093]

How tf do I get it out of the death cube without damaging it

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

You can use tweezers to grab the pot and pull it out. Or, you can just cut the plastic cube with scissors. You won't need the death cube anymore, so cutting it is just fine!

[@FavOnIcon]

everytime i go to lowes, these plants are near death....and i have stopped trying to even rescue them

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

I had to look away yesterday. It's so hard...

[@plantguy9]

People treat them as a novelty plant. But things are getting better for them even if just a little.

[@ashleymerriam7713]

I signed up for the info sheet several days ago…just an empty mail box over here.

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Ashley, I 'm so sorry. I've been having issues with this. Working with the company that helps me send those out to resolve. Hoping to have it resolved really soon. Thank you for your patience.

[@msannhasfaith]

You do need the container at compound your don’t bind

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

I'm sorry, I didn't quite understand?

[@RollTheWindowsUp_WISAD]

What about using coco and perlite 70/30

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

I've never used coco coir but have seen very mixed results. Actually, I get this question a lot. I'm gonna get some and test out. But, I've seen people use it but they had to soak it for days to get it to decent levels for flytraps. So, if you do get coco, make sure you have a tds meter to measure the water coming out of it. If its a ove 50, keep flushing until it's under 50.

[@RollTheWindowsUp_WISAD]

@Carnivorous Plants Hub so for many who use coco like me do practice what's called conditioning coco coir. I do believe my coco is pretty clean it even leaches cal mag so with some plants I gotta add cal mag

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

Interesting! I'd say give it a shot. Especially if it's conditioned. I'd still probably measure with TDS, just to be sure.

[@RollTheWindowsUp_WISAD]

@@CarnivorousPlantsHub I also have a soil mix which Is peat moss coco and perlite. Just not much of it I prefer to use it on something else

[@CarnivorousPlantsHub]

I'd feel better about you using thr coco peat mix but understand if you have jt reserved for something else. What is your process for conditioning the coco?