Venus Flytrap Producing Deformed Traps—Light or Water Issue

Aaron in California (zone 8) has three VFTs suddenly developing traps with short, straight teeth on one half and normal curved teeth on the other. Conditions: 50/50 peat/perlite, half direct sun/half artificial light.

Likely Causes

Christopher: "Carnivorous plant leaves often deform in various situations. I would say that either your lighting is inadequate or some environmental effect is damaging the plants."

• Light: Window glass filters UV; even a sunny window isn't "full sun." Need ≥12,000 lumens cool white/daylight tubes ≤4 inches from leaves, 16 hrs/day in growing season.
• Water: Minerals >50 ppm sour the soil, causing deformed growth and eventual death. Use only distilled, rain, or RO water—not "drinking water" (remineralized).
• Chemicals: Any fertilizer, soap, or additive contacting the plant can cause deformity.

Send a follow-up with a viewable photo if the above doesn't resolve it.