Question
pitcher plant with hol
QUESTION: I have noticed something is eating on my Purple Pitcher Plant. At first I noticed what appeared to be white webbing type stuff in a new pitcher. I thought it was fungus so I sprayed it with the recommended spray but now I see holes in another fairly new pitcher and very fine webs. I will try to attatch a photo.
ANSWER: Hi Pat,
This is most likely a caterpillar of some kind, or a slug or snail. If you have any other plants you have to protect from slugs or snails, that is your most likely suspect. If not, you may have some roaming caterpillars that are taking an occasional bite out of the plants.
If can see the planter is on the ground, so mollusks are a strong possibility. If it seems likely, bait for them or use appropriate barriers. For insects, many insecticides will do the job. A systemic like Bayer 3 in 1 would work, or a product containing Spinosad would be very good for caterpillars.
Good Growing!
Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
http://www.growcarnivorousplants.com
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Thanks for your quick response. There doesn't seem to be any damage to the sundew or flytrap that share the tray.
AnswerHi Pat,
I rarely see slug damage here in the Northwest on Venus Flytraps or Sundews. They love Sarracenia, with purpurea and oreophila being their top targets. This is from last spring: https://www.facebook.com/snwplants/photos/pb.183635138319459.-2207520000.1406046353./871425776207055/?type=3&theater
Good Growing!
Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
http://www.growcarnivorousplants.com
