Question
Hi,  I live in Central Illinois, and I am trying to grow American Pitcher Plants outside during the summer as suggested in the DVDs I purchased.  My problem is the wind.  I am having a terrible time with the wind breaking my plants if they get much over 6 inches tall.  I really want to be successful at growing the pitcher plants, so I am wondering if you would have any suggestions on how I might solve this problem.  I have tried building small cages around individual plants to keep them from blowing around too much, but I still get broken and bent plants.  I would welcome any suggestions.  Thank You.

Answer
Hi Vickee,

It sounds like you need to construct an actual windbreak of some kind.  Locating the plants near a fence or other structure can help as long as it is sunny for a good portion of the day.  Another option would be to locate some larger potted shrubs near the plants that would take the brunt of the wind.  I've also seen folks just use cinder blocks to create windbreaks.  This way you could arrange them in whatever shape or height you need.

Does the wind blow all the time, or is this just during storms that you're having this problem?  If you could send me a photo of the area I might have a few more suggestions if I could see the area you're working with.

Good Growing!

Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
http://www.cobraplant.com