Why won't my venus flytrap plant eat any flies?

Question

I think its fairly healthy..I got it in April and within the past couple months many new traps have been developing and they're open but I've tried closing it by putting my finger inside (I know, its not good for it but I had to try) and I think its supposed to be pink when its mature (according to wikipedia)

so I was just wondering what's going wrong with this thing and if anyone could offer any advice

thanks!

Answer 1

At least two of the trigger hairs have to be stimulated for a trap to close.  Look carefully along the midrib of the leaf and you should be able to see the hairs.  If you want to feed the trap, try some wingless fruitflies.  They can be obtained from pet shops or from on-line sources and easily grown in a bottle.

Venus fly traps don't have to be fed any insects and especially no meat as it will cause the traps to rot very quickly.  A good source of information about any type of insectivorous plant is  http://www.carnivorousplantnursery.com/

You can buy additional plants and supplies from the store as well.

Answer 2

Sounds like you're doing well with it so far.  Different venus flytrap species have different coloring.   What kind of lighting are you giving it?  They actually do well in full sunlight.  If yours is green, it may not be getting enough light.  Also, it's not necessary to feed them deliberately.  Keep up the good work!  Check the source below for a care sheet on venus flytraps.

Answer 3

I agree with Roger S on this question.

Answer 4

Sometimes, when the venus flytrap eats too much, it decides not to eat anymore.

Especially when it snacks secretly at night when you are sleeping. xp

Answer 5

These plants are native to bog swamps in the southeast and they trap more ants than flies. There are three hairs inside each trap. For the trap to close, 2 of the three hairs must be touched. These plants like lots of sunshine, constantly damp soil and water low in minerals. They trap insects because the soil is so low in nutrients. Therefore, fertilizing them is not recommended. They grow all spring and summer and then enter a dormant period in the winter. It might be possible to place them inside a plastic sandwich bag and put them in the refrigerator door to simulate winter conditions.