Growing Carnivorous Plants in Charleston

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A large red and green pitcher hanging from a pitcher plants in the greenhouse at Meeting Green.

Happy Halloween from your plant friends at Meeting Green! We're ending spooky season the only way we know how... with a carnivorous plant restock! There are over 600 species of carnivorous plants around the globe and we are lucky enough to have many growing natively right here in the Carolinas. Specifically, the Venus Flytrap can only be found growing wild in bogs along the southeast coast! Ready to add one to your collection this spooky season? Keep reading to learn all about growing carnivorous plants in Charleston.

A bog with a stepping stone pathway. Ferns and carnivorous plants growing between trees. Photo taken at Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden Wilmington, NC. — Pathway at Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden Wilmington, NC

what is a Bog?

A bog is a type of wetland with soft, spongy ground made up of decaying plant material. There are many different types of bogs, but they are all made up of peat, receive water from precipitation instead of ground water, contain little nutrients, and are acidic. Carnivorous plants are found in bogs and have evolved to trap, dissolve, and absorb prey for nutrients, instead of relying on the surrounding environment.

so, what does this mean for my new carnivorous plant?

They need pretty specific conditions to thrive! To help your new plant, you want to replicate their natural environment as closely as possible. Let's start with soil! Plant your new carnivorous plant in a mix that retains moisture with little to no fertilizer. Remember, these plants love water and humidity! Ensure you keep the potting mixture damp or even wet at all times. You can increase humidity by misting, grouping your plants together, or even planting multiple in a terrarium. Place your carnivorous plant in bright, indirect light. While they can handle some direct sun, you'll have to be extra careful about not letting them dry out.