Question
Hi,
I live in San Diego, CA. Beginning about half way through this grow season I started noticing a black sooty build up on the areas that secrete the nectar on my sarracenia and flytraps. I read in D'Amato's book that this might be "sooty mold". So far I have noticed that it's not deadly but only unsightly. I was just wondering if this is what it probably could be and what I should do about it. I thought that maybe since it's nearing the end of the growing season and my plants are going to be slowing down in growth to just let it be and see what happens next year. If this is the case what should I do next year to fix it. Thanks again.

Good Growing,
Justin

Answer
Hi Justin,

Yes, what you're seeing is sooty mold.  Some forms of Sarracenia are prone to it, particularly the all green form of S. purpurea.  Most forms of Sarracenia and flytraps are resistant to the mold, but can succumb to it if they are growing indoors, in low light, or in areas where there is poor air circulation.

It's not harmful to the plant.  It's just a bit unsightly.  Once it occurs, it's a bit difficult to remove.  The only way to remove it is to wipe it off with a cloth soaked in a solution of Neem oil.  

To prevent it from occurring in the future, make sure that your growing conditions are optimal.  Grow your plants in full sun where there is a lot of air flow.  You can also spray your plants every 2-4 weeks with Neem oil as a precaution during the growing season.  Rain is also a natural deterrent to this type of mold.  

For sooty mold, I prefer Neem oil over sulfur because it doesn't leave a visible residue.  You can find this product at most garden centers.  As always, follow the directions provided by the manufacturer.

Good growing!
Jacob Farin