Question
Hi there,

I have a few Sarracenias (S.Purpurea, S.Filiformis, S.Oke Giant, S.Flava) and would like to know how much water should it be sitting in? They sit in 2 different pot sizes, 10cm and 20cm in height.

I live in New Zealand and summer has just begun. They all sit in a conservatory which can get pretty hot, togther with some cloudy/cool days. Is it ok for them to be sitting in at least half their pot in water? Or is that excessive which can cause problems with mould and soil turing sour?

Many thanks and look forward to your reply.

Answer
Hi Eugene,

The water level being half-way up the pots is fine, especially in hot weather.  They do best long term if the water is only about 1/4 of the way up the pots.  It becomes more of a judgement call since you have to be sure they never dry out.  In our nursery we have pools filled with Sarracenia with drain holes in the sides to prevent flooding.  Water level varies due to how level the ground is in some places.  They do fine.  When they are outside, they also get rained on which helps to freshen the soil.  If you are keeping them in your greenhouse, keep the water level lower, and try to do some top watering.

I jealous of you just going into summer.  We may have our first threat of snow this weekend.  Ugh. :)

Good Growing!

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