💬 Don’t panic if your Venus flytrap looks like it’s dying in autumn — it may just be entering dormancy!
Just like a tree shedding its leaves in winter, venus flytraps go into hibernation mode during the colder months (usually from April to September in South Africa). This natural winter rest is totally normal and essential for their long-term health and regrowth each spring
During dormancy, your plant slows down, stops producing big traps and may even look like it’s dying back. You’ll notice fewer traps, smaller growth and often dark or dry leaves — all part of the winter rest phase. This is your cue to ease up on watering and start planning a fresh batch of carnivorous plant soil for the new season ahead
Dormancy in action – black traps, trimmed leaves and sleepy flytraps recharging for the new growing season
🌿 My Venus flytraps are grown in natural outdoor conditions to make them stronger and more resilient. If you order from Cultivo during the colder months, your flytrap will arrive as a resting winter bulb with a firm body (rhizome) — trimmed back, with ground-hugging leaves or tiny traps that quietly wait for spring. I carefully clean and prep each one so it’s healthy and ready to bounce back when the new growing season kicks in!
After all, Venus flytraps can live for 15+ years if cared for properly — dormancy is just part of their natural rhythm!
Winter bulb size chart – From young flytraps to mature XXL giants, this is what dormancy looks like!
Plants in the Beginners Range come pre-planted in Cultivo’s deluxe carnivorous plant soil, while Collector Plants usually have options — bareroot (without soil) or pre-planted in the perfect mix, ready to grow
🤔 Not sure if you're on the right track? Book a health check consult and I’ll guide you from there
🧊 Looking for more winter dormancy tips? Download my free Winter Cheat Sheet for South African Growers
