Premature Dormancy Break in Rhode Island: Keep Plants Cold Longer

John's VFT and North American pitchers went dormant after 11/4 frost, stayed in garage until 12/22, then moved to dark 50°F basement. Now showing new growth in 62–68°F room. Too early?

Yes—Return to Cold

• Temperate carnivores need 3–4 months dormancy.
• Brief warm spikes are okay if followed by sustained 40°F.
• If temps stay >60°F for >1 day, plants exit dormancy and need full sun to survive.

Action

Move back to <50°F (garage, cold frame) until spring. Prevent early emergence to avoid weak, etiolated growth.