How to Grow Spatulate-Leaved Sundew

Spatulate-leaved sundew (Drosera intermedia), also known as spoon-leaved sundew, is a carnivorous plant. It traps insects with its sticky hairs and digests them for nutrients. Varieties of spatulate-leaved sundew are native to the eastern half of the United States, from Texas to Florida, all the way to Canada. Provided you have the right growing conditions and select a spatulate-leaved sundew variety native to your area, it is an easy-to-grow plant that will care for itself with little maintenance. Plant spatulate-leaved sundews in the spring when the weather is mild and rain is usually more plentiful.

Garden tiller
Peat moss or compost
Trowel
Gloves
Garden hose
Mulch

Instructions

- 1
  Select a location that is wet and ideal for a plant that grows naturally in bogs. Near the edge of a pond or stream may suffice, provided it receives at least six hours of sunlight a day. To improve soil conditions in dry sites, till soil about 6 to 8 inches deep. Then, incorporate 2 to 4 inches of peat moss or compost.
- 2
  Plant the spatulate-leaved sundew so it is just as deep as it was in its previous location or container. Wear gloves and handle the plant near the base.
- 3
  Maintain wet soil condtions. When dry conditions arise, keep the area well watered until conditions improve.
- 4
  Remove weeds on a regular basis. Weeds compete with spatulate-leaved sundews and other desired plants for the water and nutrients found in the soil.
- 5
  Add 2 inches of mulch, such as hardwood bark or straw, around the plants to help keep the soil consistently moist. This is necessary if the soil is not naturally wet, and it could be necessary in wet sites if there is a drought. Mulch also helps suppress weeds.

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