Drosera dichotoma Not Returning After Winter: Root Check Guide

A Drosera dichotoma left outdoors in Oklahoma (zone 7) died back to a black crown after frost. Other plants emerged, but this one hadn't. The grower used peat/perlite with sphagnum top dressing in standing water.

Assessing Viability

D. dichotoma (binata complex) doesn't form hibernacula like temperate sundews. It's hardy to ~zone 8 but can die in small pots during cold snaps. The crown may be dead, but roots could still be alive.

Root Inspection Procedure

1. Remove plant from pot.
2. Cut away crown tissue until you see the root center.
3. Black & mushy = dead. Black exterior, white firm center = alive.

Recovery Options

• Repot live roots with ¼" exposed, surrounded by live sphagnum.
• Take root cuttings to propagate multiple new plants (shown in Volume 2 DVD).

Even if the crown is gone, the plant may return from roots—given time.