The pitcher plant is a carnivorous plant with pitcher-shaped leaves hence the name pitcher. These leaves will eventually die off and need to be trimmed back. Below we will discuss just how to do so.
Here’s another article of our’s related to this that you may want to read: How to Take Care of a Pitcher Plant?
When Should You Prune Pitcher Plants?
Pruning your Pitcher plant is a delicate task although it does not entail a lot. The Pitcher plant does not require pruning regularly. Hence, pruning is essential in your Pitcher plant as it improves and encourages growth.
You should prune your Pitcher plant when:
After your plant has blossomed:
After the flowering period, the blossoms will wilt and die off. But, it is the most effortless pruning to do, all you have to do is take a pair of garden scissors and cut off the dried part off. So, cut the bloom off from its base.
If a part of the plant turns yellow or brown:
You should cut off the dead part of the plant. Thus, take a spare pair of scissors, trim off the fallen leaves and leave the rest be. Not only does this help the with appearance of the plant but also can cut down on mold growth.
If your foliage develops long and untidy foliage:
The Monkey Cup Pitcher plant grows rapidly and often look untidy. Moreover, they require regular pruning to keep them in check.
How to Prune Off Your Pitcher Plant?
You must go after the following instructions when pruning your Pitcher plants.
Prune only what is needed from your pitcher plant:
Prune only the yellow foliage or the section of a leaf that is yellow. The remaining green part can be left on the plant even if it is less than half. You can always come back and trim again if things take a turn for the worse.
Where to snip:
If it must go try to prune the foliage or blossom at the base where it sprouted. Also, avoid damaging the the stem it sprouted from.
What to prune your pitcher plant with:
Any sharp and sterile scissors, sheers, or clippers will do the trick. I recommend a quick wipe down of rubbing alcohol prior to cutting just to limit bacteria or fungus growth.
Any sharp scissor will do, but if you have a lot to do I recommend these from Amazon
Pitcher Plant Families Unique Pruning Problems
Family Sarraceniaceae
Family Sarraceniaeceae has three types of pitcher plant in its family. It is found majorly in North America and some part of South America. Also, members of this family live in meadows, swamps, and bogs. They prefer water-saturated, nutrient deficient and acidic environment soil. However, the distinguishing feature of this family is their flytraps, which is trumpet-shaped. Examples of this include Sweet Pitcher plant, Common Pitcher plant and Crimson Pitcher plant.
Family Nepenthaceae
It consists of a single genus Nepenthes. Genus Nepenthes has over a hundred and forty species. Moreover, they are native to Madagascar, Australia, and Asia. They are mostly perennial animals, and they grow in acidic soil. Some of them are epiphytic plants that grow on other plants and derive their nutrients from them. But, the distinguishing factor of this family is a pitcher with a nectar secreting lid. Examples of this include Slender pitcher plant, Common swamp pitcher, and Hooker’s pitcher plant.
Attenborough is a variety of Nepethaceae which is fast becoming extinct. Furthermore, it is the largest known carnivorous plant on Earth. It grows as high as 4.9 feet with large pitchers of 30 centimeters.
Family Cephalotaceae
Family Cephalotaceae has a single genus in its family. Moreover, this genus has a single species Cephalitus follicularis. This family is the smallest Pitcher plant we have. It is native in the Western part of Australia. Also, they bear normal-looking leaves. It has little pitchers that are green and protected by red and white stripes hairy cover. However, this cover prevents the accumulation of water in the Pitchers. IUCN has listed this family as a red list threatened Species. Examples of this include the Western Australian pitcher plant.
Things You Should Know About Pitcher Plants
- Pitcher plant thrives better when planted outdoor.
- Pitcher plant requires nutrient-deficient soil for optimal growth. And nutrient-rich soil can lead to the death of the plant.
- Plant Pitcher plant in highly acidic soil. However, sandy soil and peat is the best choice.
- Pitcher soil requires a lot of sunshine to thrive well. So even partial shade can lead to their death.
- They need a humid environment for growth.
- Do not use chlorinated water on your Pitcher plant. Use either distilled water or rain water.
We’ve also put together a good piece of information which is compiled into this article; Strange Facts About The Pitcher Plants to break down some other facts about this awesome plant.
