Troubleshooting
Lance-leaved Sundew problems — and how to fix them
Lance-leaved Sundew (Drosera adelae) is generally low-drama, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Mineral burn from tap water
Chlorine, fluoride, and dissolved salts in tap water accumulate in the nutrient-poor soil and cause leaf-tip browning and root die-back. Always use rain, distilled, or RO water.
Loss of dew / trap failure
When glands stop producing sticky mucilage the plant is usually stressed by low humidity, excess light, or root damage. Raise humidity, move to a shadier spot, and check for root rot caused by stagnant (not fresh) water in the tray.
Prevent lance-leaved sundew problems before they start
Most lance-leaved sundew issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Lance-leaved Sundew problems — FAQ
Why is my lance-leaved sundew mineral burn from tap water?
Chlorine, fluoride, and dissolved salts in tap water accumulate in the nutrient-poor soil and cause leaf-tip browning and root die-back. Always use rain, distilled, or RO water.
Why is my lance-leaved sundew loss of dew / trap failure?
When glands stop producing sticky mucilage the plant is usually stressed by low humidity, excess light, or root damage. Raise humidity, move to a shadier spot, and check for root rot caused by stagnant (not fresh) water in the tray.