Troubleshooting
Three-Coloured Bladderwort problems — and how to fix them
Three-Coloured Bladderwort (Utricularia tricolor) 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.
Root rot from mineral water or stagnant trays
Tap water salts and algae buildup in the water tray can cause root damage; flush the tray weekly with fresh distilled or rainwater and replace the growing medium if the roots turn brown and mushy.
No flowers produced
Insufficient light is the most common cause of failure to bloom; move the plant to a brighter position with at least 5 hours of bright indirect light daily, and ensure the growing medium has not become over-saturated or anaerobic.
Prevent three-coloured bladderwort problems before they start
Most three-coloured bladderwort issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Three-Coloured Bladderwort problems — FAQ
Why is my three-coloured bladderwort root rot from mineral water or stagnant trays?
Tap water salts and algae buildup in the water tray can cause root damage; flush the tray weekly with fresh distilled or rainwater and replace the growing medium if the roots turn brown and mushy.
Why is my three-coloured bladderwort no flowers produced?
Insufficient light is the most common cause of failure to bloom; move the plant to a brighter position with at least 5 hours of bright indirect light daily, and ensure the growing medium has not become over-saturated or anaerobic.