Repotting Drosera scorpioides: When and How to Harden Off Leaf and Root Cuttings

A grower with a Drosera scorpioides (shaggy sundew) over a year old notes a woody, brown lower stem and asks if repotting helps. They also have spoonleaf sundew (D. spatulata) leaf and root cuttings at 7 weeks and want to know when to harden them off.

Drosera scorpioides Stem Habit and Repotting

The brown, hardened lower stem is natural for this species. Mature plants (3–4 years old) often have only the top inch green. Repotting from a 3-inch to a 4- or 5-inch pot gives a growth boost heading into the season but won't change the plant's natural habit.

Hardening Off Cuttings

• Root cuttings: Harden off when you see roots on the plantlets. Don't wait for large clumps—prolonged high humidity risks sudden fungal wipeout.
• Leaf cuttings: Harden off when fully formed small plants with roots are visible. They typically lag behind root cuttings.
• Method: Use a humidity dome or tray with a clear lid. Prop it open ~1 inch for a week, increase gradually over 1–2 weeks until ambient humidity is tolerated.

Seed Germination Tip

For tropical sundew seeds (e.g., D. capensis), sow uncovered on peat—no humidity dome needed. This avoids mold and eliminates hardening off. Germination is slightly slower but more reliable. Sow sparsely to ease later separation.

Timely hardening off prevents fungal losses and produces robust, acclimated plants.