Drosera adelae Collapse: Tap Water Mineral Buildup Identified

A grower's 4" D. adelae thrived for 3 months in a bathroom terrarium (skylight + artificial light, RO water, occasional tap misting pH 7.5–8.0, fed fruit flies), then leaves turned brown/mushy.

Diagnosis

Misting with hard tap water (pH up to 8.0) caused mineral toxicity. D. adelae is sensitive to minerals. Live shoots and roots may remain.

Recovery Steps

1. Flush pot thoroughly with RO water.
2. Cut off dead stems at soil level; leave live shoots.
3. Stop misting—it's useless for sundews and caused the problem.
4. Never let soil dry out; D. adelae is intolerant of drought.

Follow-Up: Feeding

Fruit flies are tiny; overfeeding unlikely. Place on sticky leaves only.