Winter Care for Tropical Carnivorous Plants: No Dormancy Needed

A Wisconsin novice grew Drosera adelae and an Asian pitcher plant (Nepenthes) in a west window. Growth halted in winter; the sundew lost dew.

Key Fact

Both are tropical—they have no dormancy. Slowdown is due to short days.

Winter Boost

• Add a fluorescent desk lamp within 3 inches, on a 12–14 hour timer.
• Move plants back from the window if it gets very cold (they rarely see <50°F in nature).

No fridge, no frost, no dormancy—just supplemental light and warmth.