Question
Unknown Sundew
I recently acquired an unknown Sundew from a grower here in Central Ohio. It seems to have come with mites of some sort. The small pests are only on the newest growth in the center of the plant. It had some old leaves and spent flowers, so I pruned them off. I usually treat for mites with insecticidal soap or something stronger. I am unsure how to treat a Sundew for mites or other pests. Any help you could provide would be greatly appreciated.
AnswerHi Tyler,
Your sundew has aphids. The easiest thing to use is an insecticide with imidacloprid. Many of the Bayer products use this ingredient. It's a systemic insecticide, so it goes into the tissues and protects the plant for about a month. Check out our video on using insecticides: http://www.youtube.com/user/SarraceniaNorthwest#p/u/3/lbRCdJ8ZNF0
Your sundew is a Cape Sundew, Drosera capensis. It's the most common, and one of the easiest to grow tropical sundews in cultivation.
Good Growing!
Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
http://www.cobraplant.com
