Sudden Dew Loss on Drosera spatulata: Environmental Shock Suspected

Jeff (the questioner) purchased a D. spatulata from Sarracenia Northwest in June. It thrived under 4×6500K T8s (82°F day/74°F night, tray watering, distilled water) until dew vanished overnight a week ago. No sprays, no changes reported.

Likely Cause: Physical or Chemical Disturbance

Jeff Dallas asked a diagnostic checklist:

• Was the plant moved, exposed to fan draft, or sprayed by someone else?
• Were aerosols used in the room?
• Was it placed outside even briefly?

The symptoms match a sudden environmental shock—physical disturbance or chemical exposure.

Recovery Plan

• Stabilize conditions: no moving, no rapid changes.
• New leaves will emerge in 2–3 weeks (D. spatulata is fast-growing).
• Pale color in new photo suggests moving lights slightly closer.

Good Growing!
Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
www.growcarnivorousplants.com