Question
Hi Jeff and Jacob

 Well, it has been a tough spring for my Sarracenia. Aphids, lousy weather and who knows what else have all done a number on them. In any case, my sarracenia are not doing very well. But hope springs eternal and I am starting to see some healthy looking pitchers on some of my plants.

My question is about the less healthy looking ones that seem to be producing healthier looking pitchers. Should I cut off the deformed pitchers to allow the plant to put more energy into the production of new pitchers, or should I leave them on to capture as many insects as they can and also photosynthesize ? You should also know that some of the plants are producing the winter leaves .. and not just the leucophylla

As always.... thanks for your advice.

Nicole


Answer
Hi Nicole,

I know the feeling.  We had some significant plant damage this year due to a freak thunderstorm in June.

Just cut off any badly damaged leaves.  They tend to be of little use to the plant.  If some have significant insect capture you might leave those.  Phyllodia production is a result of photoperiod.  Many S. flava and oreophila start making them this time of year.


Good Growing!

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