Carnivorous Plants/Pale Plant

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Question
I am growing Drosera Adalae, It looks like, since I have taken it out of the shipping packaging, my plant has turned more pale than it was. The colors aren't as vibrant as before. I'm not too owrried because it is still growing and putting out leaves but there is very little dew if any and it is a pale green color. I have 3-4 hours of light morning sun an average of 3 days a week in an ESE facing window, 10-12 hours of 23 watt flourescent a day, peat/perlite soil, in Oregon near Canyonville, don't know haw to attach a pic. Thanks for you time and help!

Answer
Hi Sterling,

Pale leaves are not unusual during the winter when light levels are low.  You might need to move your light closer to the plant. (You didn't mention how far away the plant was from the light.)  As long as your plant is making dewy leaves, you plant is doing fine.  Lack of dew and pale color means it needs more light.  Also, be sure you're using either distilled water or rainwater for your plant's water.  A picture would really help me to make a better diagnosis.

To attach and image, use the "Attach Image" link at the bottom of the question submission page.  Follow the directions on how to upload a photo.

Good Growing!

Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
http://www.cobraplant.com

Carnivorous Plants

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If your plant is showing poor growth, discoloration, abnormal leaves or possible infestation, the growers at Sarracenia Northwest can help! Carnivorous plant experts Jeff Dallas and Jacob Farin will help you diagnose the problem and get your plants on the right track. Their no nonsense approach has helped thousands of growers all over the world. They can help you too!

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With over 40 years of combined experience, Jeff and Jacob has definitely taken a straight forward approach to growing carnivorous plants. They have encountered many types of diseases, abnormal growth and infestations related to carnivorous plants, and they know what it takes to get plants looking beautiful and healthy again.

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Authors of Secrets to Growing Beautiful Carnivorous Plants for Your Home and Garden and producers of the Grow Carnivorous Plants! DVD Series. They also produce a monthly video podcast to illustrate how plants cycle through the seasons.

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