Question
well, its that time of year here in SD, cold, snow, and winter weather.  night time temps dipping regular into the mid to low 20's. So, the pitchers and traps made their way into the unheated garage for winter.  And yes, during january and feb, stuff freezes in my garage, so that is when i keep an extra close eye on the garage temp. I know the Scarlette belle, northern purple, and purple pitcher plants all are supposed to keep their leaves during the winter because they have thicker and more hearty leaves.  My question is, are there any other ones that should keep the leaves during the winter months?  Because i'm giving everyone haircuts this week, and want to make sure not to buzz anyone that i shouldnt.  I've got multiple rubra's, green pitcher, trumpet pitchers, VFT's, altas, hybrids, etc, etc.  (had to construct a shelf just for my plants).

Answer
Hi Darren,

The only other plants that need some of their leaves left on are S. psittacina, and psittacina hybrids.  Some of the S. purpurea hybrids you can also leave the leaves on them, but just use your judgement.  You won't kill them if you cut the leaves off.  Pretty much any of the trumpet pitchers and hybrids you can cut their leaves off.  It'll be good hygiene, and will minimize transpiration.


Good Growing!

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