Drosera Rotundifolia and D. Binata Dichotoma: Managing Early Dormancy Break

Drosera Rotundifolia and D. Binata Dichotoma: Managing Early Dormancy Break

Weylin's Drosera rotundifolia and D. binata 'Dichotoma' are breaking dormancy early after an unusually warm winter. Plants are in peat/perlite, watered with distilled water, at 35–45°F. He asks if they can go under CFL lights.

Species-Specific Responses

D. binata 'Dichotoma': Tolerates short dormancy well. Can go under lights now—it will resume growth without issue.

D. rotundifolia: Requires a longer, deeper dormancy. Photoperiod is a stronger cue than temperature. Keep it in natural light; it likely won't fully grow until late February or early March. Forcing it under lights now may weaken it.

Key Takeaway

Not all temperate sundews respond the same to early warmth. D. binata is flexible; D. rotundifolia needs its full winter rest.