Troubleshooting
Tiny Sundew problems — and how to fix them
Tiny Sundew (Drosera parvula) 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.
Total loss during summer dormancy
The dormant stipule bud is easily rotted if the pot remains wet in warm weather; once the tiny leaves die back in spring move the pot away from the water tray, keep it warm and bone-dry until regrowth appears in autumn.
Algae overgrowth smothering the rosette
The extremely small rosette can be buried by algal mats on the substrate surface; top-dress with a thin layer of washed sand and ensure good airflow to reduce algae, and remove any growth directly touching the crown with fine tweezers.
Prevent tiny sundew problems before they start
Most tiny sundew issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Tiny Sundew problems — FAQ
Why is my tiny sundew total loss during summer dormancy?
The dormant stipule bud is easily rotted if the pot remains wet in warm weather; once the tiny leaves die back in spring move the pot away from the water tray, keep it warm and bone-dry until regrowth appears in autumn.
Why is my tiny sundew algae overgrowth smothering the rosette?
The extremely small rosette can be buried by algal mats on the substrate surface; top-dress with a thin layer of washed sand and ensure good airflow to reduce algae, and remove any growth directly touching the crown with fine tweezers.