Sarracenia (mitchelliana x rosea) x 'Double Drool'

Sarracenia (Sarracenia spp.) is a genus of carnivorous plants commonly known as pitcher plants. Caring for Sarracenia 'Double Drool' (a hybrid of Sarracenia mitchelliana x Sarracenia rosea) involves creating conditions that mimic its natural habitat and providing it with proper care. Here are some guidelines to help you care for this fascinating plant:

1. Light: Sarracenia 'Double Drool' thrives in bright light. Place it in a location where it can receive 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day, preferably in a south or east-facing window. Alternatively, you can grow this plant outside! Place in full sun to part shade. 

2. Temperature: This hybrid pitcher plant prefers cool to moderate temperatures. During the growing season (spring to early autumn), keep the temperatures between 60°F to 85°F (15°C to 29°C). During the winter months, the plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 40°F (4°C) but should not freeze.

3. Water: Sarracenia 'Double Drool' is a bog-dwelling plant, and it requires consistently moist soil. Keep the soil damp at all times, and consider using the "tray method" to grow your plants. Use distilled or rainwater if living outside of San Francisco, as these plants are sensitive to chemicals present in some tap water.

4. Soil: These carnivorous plants prefer a well-draining, acidic soil mix. You can use a mixture of peat moss and perlite or sand. Avoid using regular potting soil, as there are often an excess of other nutrients and fertilizers in those soils that can damage your carnivorous plant. 

5. Humidity: Sarracenia 'Double Drool' appreciates moderate to high humidity levels. If the air in your home is dry, consider using a humidity tray or a room humidifier to maintain the necessary moisture around the plant.  This should not be an issue if you grow your plant in northern california, indoors or outdoors. 

6. Feeding: As carnivorous plants, Sarracenia 'Double Drool' captures insects and other small prey to supplement their nutrient intake. They do this using their characteristic pitcher-shaped leaves. However, they can usually obtain enough nutrients from their environment. Avoid feeding the plant yourself, as it can lead to an imbalance in its nutrient intake.

7. Dormancy: Sarracenia 'Double Drool' requires a period of winter dormancy to remain healthy. During the colder months, reduce watering and move the plant to a cooler location where temperatures remain above freezing but don't exceed 50°F (10°C). You may notice some die-back of old growth during this time, but new growth will emerge in the spring. If growing your Sarracenia outdoors, no forcing of dormancy is required!  It will happen on its own. 

8. Pests and Diseases: Watch out for common houseplant pests like aphids, mealybugs, snails, and spider mites. If you notice any pests, isolate the plant and treat it with insecticidal soap. Sarracenia is generally disease-resistant.

9. Propagation: Sarracenia 'Double Drool' can be propagated through division during the growing season. Carefully separate the rhizomes and roots to create new individual plants, ensuring each division has a good set of roots.

Remember that Sarracenia 'Double Drool' is a delicate and unique plant that requires some specialized care. Following these guidelines should help you keep it healthy and thriving in your home. Enjoy your fascinating carnivorous plant!