About This Project

Sarracenia, a genus of North American, carnivorous pitcher plants, have garnered significant interest for their ornamental and educational value. Despite this they remain understudied by horticulturists and there is much to be elucidated about their care. We will develop best-practices for horticultural care including soil-less media formulations, nutritional recommendations, and water requirements based on empirical data, lowering the barriers to entry of education using these plants.

Ask the Scientists

What is the context of this research?

The genus Sarracenia, despite its environmental and cultural significance remains under-researched, especially regarding its ornamental and educational potential. To date, most of the information on horticultural care of carnivorous plants has been through anecdotal evidence, largely from passionate hobbyist growers. Prior research is limited to fewer than 5 horticultural studies, inhibiting the adoption of these charismatic plants as a model system. This project builds on our preliminary data on fertilization of pitcher plants which has historically been advised against, to develop an optimal care guide while addressing gaps in soil composition and nutrient characterization in horticultural collections.

What is the significance of this project?

This study addresses the lack of empirical research on Sarracenia horticulture by establishing foundational knowledge of optimal growing practices. The soil-less media trials and nutrient analysis will elucidate ideal growing conditions and provide rigorously tested guidelines for cultivation. This project will also characterize the effects of soil type, fertilization, and watering regimes on both root and vegetative phenotypes. Of note is that root phenotypes have never been investigated within the genus. Root phenotypes, similar to Sarracenia, are an understudied aspect of horticulture. Investigating this trait will better inform our horticultural practices and allow us to better understand how the plants interact with their below-ground environment.

What are the goals of the project?

This project aims to highlight Sarracenia’s value as an ornamental teaching tool through their unique morphology and carnivorous habit by developing a research-backed guide to best-growing practices. This guide will make growing these fascinating plants more accessible to growers of all skill levels. We aim to promote Sarracenia as a model system for education and outreach, fostering interest in plant sciences both in and outside the classroom by partnering with the MSU 4H Children’s Garden and the National 4H Program to develop and disseminate these materials and develop lesson plans. Beyond advancing horticultural knowledge, this project emphasizes community education and inspiring broader engagement with plants, helping to alleviate plant awareness disparity (formerly plant blindness).