Troubleshooting
Red Tube Pitcher problems — and how to fix them
Red Tube Pitcher (Sarracenia rubra) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Pitcher browning from minerals
Any mineral content in tap water will cause tip browning and eventual plant death. Use only pure rainwater or distilled water with no exceptions.
Failure to develop red colour
Insufficient sunlight prevents red pigmentation. Move to a brighter, sunnier position.
Winter rot of rhizome
Over-wet conditions during cold dormancy cause rot. Drain the water tray to minimal moisture levels from November to February.
Aphid infestation
Aphids attack the tender new growth in spring. Remove by hand or rinse with a fine spray of rainwater.
Prevent red tube pitcher problems before they start
Most red tube pitcher issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Red Tube Pitcher problems — FAQ
Why is my red tube pitcher pitcher browning from minerals?
Any mineral content in tap water will cause tip browning and eventual plant death. Use only pure rainwater or distilled water with no exceptions.
Why is my red tube pitcher failure to develop red colour?
Insufficient sunlight prevents red pigmentation. Move to a brighter, sunnier position.
Why is my red tube pitcher winter rot of rhizome?
Over-wet conditions during cold dormancy cause rot. Drain the water tray to minimal moisture levels from November to February.
Why is my red tube pitcher aphid infestation?
Aphids attack the tender new growth in spring. Remove by hand or rinse with a fine spray of rainwater.