Troubleshooting
Tropical Sundew problems — and how to fix them
Tropical Sundew (Drosera burmannii) 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.
Tentacle collapse and black leaves
Usually caused by tap water mineral build-up or drought. Switch immediately to distilled or rainwater and maintain a permanently wet tray.
Failure to produce sticky dew
Insufficient light is the most common cause. Move to a brighter location or increase grow-light duration to 14 hours per day.
Fungal damping-off
Stagnant air combined with high humidity encourages Botrytis. Ensure gentle airflow and remove dead leaves promptly.
Prevent tropical sundew problems before they start
Most tropical sundew issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for tropical sundew in general rather than its problems? Read the full tropical sundew care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Tropical Sundew problems — FAQ
Why is my tropical sundew tentacle collapse and black leaves?
Usually caused by tap water mineral build-up or drought. Switch immediately to distilled or rainwater and maintain a permanently wet tray.
Why is my tropical sundew failure to produce sticky dew?
Insufficient light is the most common cause. Move to a brighter location or increase grow-light duration to 14 hours per day.
Why is my tropical sundew fungal damping-off?
Stagnant air combined with high humidity encourages Botrytis. Ensure gentle airflow and remove dead leaves promptly.