Troubleshooting
Pygmy Sundew problems — and how to fix them
Pygmy Sundew (Drosera scorpioides) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Loss of dew
Tentacles with no sticky droplets usually mean light is too low, humidity too low, or air too dry from heating. Increase light and humidity, and keep the tray topped up with pure water.
Mineral-water decline
Tap or mineral water salts kill these salt-sensitive plants. Use only rainwater, distilled, or RO water in the tray.
Rot in still, wet conditions
Permanently flooded soil with poor airflow rots the small rosettes. Keep the soil moist, not saturated, and ensure good air movement.
Etiolated, stretched rosettes
Pale, elongated growth signals insufficient light. Move to a brighter window or add grow lights for compact, red, dewy rosettes.
Prevent pygmy sundew problems before they start
Most pygmy sundew issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for pygmy sundew in general rather than its problems? Read the full pygmy sundew care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Pygmy Sundew problems — FAQ
Why is my pygmy sundew loss of dew?
Tentacles with no sticky droplets usually mean light is too low, humidity too low, or air too dry from heating. Increase light and humidity, and keep the tray topped up with pure water.
Why is my pygmy sundew mineral-water decline?
Tap or mineral water salts kill these salt-sensitive plants. Use only rainwater, distilled, or RO water in the tray.
Why is my pygmy sundew rot in still, wet conditions?
Permanently flooded soil with poor airflow rots the small rosettes. Keep the soil moist, not saturated, and ensure good air movement.
Why is my pygmy sundew etiolated, stretched rosettes?
Pale, elongated growth signals insufficient light. Move to a brighter window or add grow lights for compact, red, dewy rosettes.