Expert: Sarracenia Northwest - 9/23/2011

Question
I will be transplanting my Cephalotus plant this winter, due to a large growth spurt. My question is -

 1. I have never used a African violate  pot, but have read this works well. Should I switch to this new type of pot, or continue to use plastic or all ceramic (I think the inside of the African Violate pot is made from a raw clay, not glazed )

 2. Does a soil mixture of 2-parts perlite to one part Canadian peat moss  work well, or would the mixture from the Sarracenia Northwest be a better way to go ?

Answer
While we had suggested using African violet pots in the past, we've noticed that their quality isn't consistent.  Some pots allow to much water to pass through, which would keep the soil too damp.  You will also need to modify your soil accordingly.  For simplicity sake, stick with plastic pots or glazed ceramic pots.

There are numerous mixes you can use as long as the soil has lots of drainage and aeration.  A simple mix of 1 part peat moss and 2 parts perlite will do the job.  This mix retains moisture, while allowing for soil aeration.

Currently, we're using a mix of 1 part peat moss, 1 part perlite, 1 part pumice and 1 part orchid bark.  This is an extremely porous mix, which means we have to top water more frequently.  So if you're attentive with watering, you can use a porous mix.  However, if you tend to forget to water you plants now and then, stick with the previous mix.

For more information about growing Cephalotus, watch Volume 3 of the Grow Carnivorous Plants DVD series.

Good growing!
Jacob Farin