Managing Winter Dormancy for Carnivorous Plants in South Florida's Mild Winters

A Florida grower with Venus flytraps, Cape sundews, and white-top pitcher plants asked whether to refrigerate them or leave them outside during variable 50s–70s°F weather.

Outdoor Dormancy Is Possible

Florida winters often provide enough chill (<60°F) for dormancy. Use an ice chest with frozen water bottles to buffer warm spells:

• Place pots in chest; surround with frozen bottles.
• Open lid by day for light/UV (kills mold) and air exchange.
• Close at night to retain cold.

Refrigerator Method (Less Ideal)

• Dark, dry, stagnant air promotes mold.
• If used, bag plants loosely, check often for mold, spray fungicide.

Recommendation

Ice chest mimics natural day/night cycles and provides light cues for spring emergence. Use it during warm spells; let nature handle the cold nights.