Emersed species grown in a 7.5 cm pot as a groundcover for carnivorous plants, assiting in keeping soil clean.
 
Utricularia bisquamata Care Sheet
General Information:
Utricularia bisquamata, commonly known as the "bladderwort," is a small, terrestrial carnivorous plant native to South Africa. It is known for its tiny, yet attractive flowers and its ability to capture and digest tiny soil-dwelling organisms using specialized bladder traps. This plant can be grown successfully in a terrarium or in a pot alongside other carnivorous plants.
Terrarium Care:
1. Terrarium Setup:
Container: Use a glass or plastic terrarium with a lid to maintain high humidity. A small to medium-sized terrarium works well.
Substrate: A mix of 50% sphagnum peat moss and 50% sand or perlite. Ensure the substrate is well-draining but can retain moisture.
Humidity: Maintain high humidity levels, around 70-90%. This can be achieved by keeping the terrarium covered and misting occasionally.
Lighting: Provide bright, indirect light. Place the terrarium near a window with filtered sunlight or use artificial grow lights for 12-14 hours a day. Avoid direct sunlight, which can overheat the terrarium.
2. Watering:
Water Quality: Use distilled water, rainwater, or reverse osmosis (RO) water to avoid mineral buildup, which can harm the plant.
Watering Method: Keep the substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the terrarium from the top or use a tray to maintain moisture levels.
3. Temperature:
Daytime: 70-80°F (21-27°C)
Nighttime: 55-65°F (13-18°C)
4. Feeding:
Utricularia bisquamata captures tiny soil-dwelling organisms like protozoa and nematodes. In a terrarium setting, these organisms are often present naturally. You do not need to feed the plant, but you can occasionally add small amounts of aquarium water with microscopic life if needed.
Potting with Carnivorous Plants:
1. Potting Setup:
Pot: Use a plastic pot with drainage holes. A 3-4 inch pot is suitable for a small grouping of Utricularia bisquamata and other small carnivorous plants.
Substrate: A mix of 50% sphagnum peat moss and 50% sand or perlite. Ensure the substrate is well-draining.
2. Companion Plants:
Utricularia bisquamata can be grown alongside other small carnivorous plants such as Drosera (sundews) or Pinguicula (butterworts). Ensure the companion plants have similar light, water, and soil requirements.
3. Watering:
Water Quality: Use distilled water, rainwater, or reverse osmosis (RO) water.
Watering Method: Keep the substrate consistently moist. Water the pot by placing it in a tray with water and allowing the substrate to soak up moisture. Do not let the pot sit in water for extended periods to prevent root rot.
4. Lighting:
Provide bright, indirect light. A sunny windowsill with filtered light or artificial grow lights for 12-14 hours a day is ideal. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the plants.
5. Temperature:
Daytime: 70-80°F (21-27°C)
Nighttime: 55-65°F (13-18°C)
6. Feeding:
Utricularia bisquamata will naturally capture small soil-dwelling organisms in the pot. No additional feeding is necessary, but you can occasionally add small amounts of aquarium water with microscopic life if needed.
By following these care guidelines, you can successfully cultivate Utricularia bisquamata in both terrarium settings and in pots alongside other carnivorous plants. This fascinating and attractive carnivorous plant can thrive and add unique interest to your collection.