Question
well, I was finaly able to get volcanic rock to increase the aeration of my substrate in my pots. The specific red rock I bought is called "Tezontle," is that good for my CP's? or is it possible that some volcanic rocks can be perilous to my plant? Also, if it is OK to use them, can I use these as decorative rocks in my post? I want to super-size the traps of my Dionaea.

I have another question. You say in your care sheets that pygmy sundews are annual (and I have read that in different sources), but in your DVD, you mentioned that most live for up to 2 years, wouldn't that be biannual? Sorry it's just that I'm a bit confused by that.

Well, I think that's it for now, thanx!

Alonso

Answer
Hi Alonso,

Nearly all volcanic rock is inert, meaning that they don't impart any minerals into the soil.  So far we've hadn't had any problems with any of the commercially available volcanic rocks.

It's a lot easier to care for pygmy sundews as annuals since they like it fairly bright.  Most species enjoy growing in full sun, which we often provide during the summer months.  In fall and winter, these plants produce gemmae, at which time the entire plant seems to shut down.  You can maintain the main plant into the next growing season provided that the light levels are bright enough.  For a lot of growers in North America, they have a hard time keeping maintaining adequate levels during the winter months.  In this case, we simply recommend harvesting the gemmae and starting anew.  

Of course, each species has its own growth habits.  Some make it through winter fine with the lower light levels.  Others don't.  Rather than giving specific instructions for each individual pygmy sundew, we give a general recommendation that'll cover all of them in cultivation.  So treating all pygmy sundews as annuals is fine.  As you gain more experience and have the equipment to provide strong lighting during the winter, then you can experiment with your specific microclimate to find what it takes to keep these plants going year after year.  

Good growing!
Jacob Farin