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Watering

Darlingtonia's require a moist compost at all times, this is most easily achieved by standing the pots in a water filled tray.  Generally speaking, water to a depth of 1.5 to 2 cm should be sufficient through the spring and summer months,  This can gradually be reduced through the autumn, whilst through the winter it is only necessary to water the compost as and when required. 

As with almost all carnivorous plants it is essential only rain water is used, tap water generally contains too many nitrates and chemicals for the plants root system to be able to handle. 

Much has been said in the past that Darlingtonia's require a strict regime of watering through the compost on a daily basis if the plant is to flourish.  Experience has shown this is not required, with plants being watered on the tray system along with Sarrcenia's and Dionaea's in greenhouse's in full sun. 

Ample ventilation is always provided through the greenhouse, and it could be argued that the evaporation of the water does provide some cooling effect. 

To create some much needed space during the winter, most of our Darlingtonia's are kept outside in trays, here normal rainfall tends to ensure that the trays never dry out and the plants do not seem to mind being stood in water in this environment.  Throughout the winter it is not unusual to have plants completely submersed and frozen solid in water for several days, without any ill effects. 

If the plant is kept in a warm conservatory or on a window sill, it will not do any harm to leave it stood in water throughout the winter months.  This method simplifies the watering arrangements considerably and reduces the risk of losing the plant through lack of water.