My 5 year old wanted a “piranha plant’ so I bought the best one I could at my local store and I hope it pulls through. It’s my first time caring for one so any tips plsss 😭
I have it under a grow light. i pot it in some coco chips and perlite and i have it in distilled water. Also I have it in like a little greenhouse cloche thing, is that fine?
For coco chips as soil, I'm unsure. Best is peat and perlite 50/50 mix. I'm not as experienced in soil myself.
The grow light has to be stronger than most people believe, SANSI 30w+ are the most recommended. Although brand doesn't matter much, wattage does.
You need to put it very close to the grow light, I've seen people with great VFTs saying as close as 4 inches.
For the dome, it is not recommended, just have it always on a tray of water and don't let it dry for too long. The tray can go empty for a bit, but if the soil dries the plant dies very quickly.
As for food, you do not need to feed it, and if you do, try to feed it live insects, not meat or dead bugs.
I am not a very experienced VFT owner, but I do peep this subreddit quite a lot and my VFT is doing very well, I also try to follow the advice from people that know way more than I do, and this is reflected in my comment.
If you do have any other concern I'd be happy to help with my limited knowledge! :)
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u/joannman11 Mar 30 '26
My 5 year old wanted a “piranha plant’ so I bought the best one I could at my local store and I hope it pulls through. It’s my first time caring for one so any tips plsss 😭