Botrytis Rhizome Rot in Sarracenia: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

Symptoms

Sudden pitcher death, brown/black leaves, healthy neighbors. Classic botrytis (grey mold) in the rhizome.

Emergency Treatment

1. Unpot immediately.
2. Cut away all brown/mushy rhizome—only white tissue remains.
3. Heavy sulfur fungicide spray on healthy parts.
4. Repot in fresh media (no old soil).

Prevention

• Water level ≤ 1/4 pot height long-term.
• Remove old leaves promptly (harbor fungus).
• Full sun + air circulation.
• S. purpurea and S. rubra most susceptible.

Top-Dressing Warning

Dried long-fiber sphagnum harbors mold spores. Use live sphagnum (acidifies) or pea gravel/coconut chips.

Biological Control

Root Shield (trichoderma fungus) drench or powder—competes with pathogens. Used successfully on Cephalotus and D. regia.