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Pests

Greenfly

Greenfly tends to be the only pest that attacks Dionaea, and then this tends to be restricted to plants kept in a greenhouse.  They attack the young immature traps before they fully emerge from the centre of the bulb, usually the first sign of greenfly are deformed traps growing out of the bulb. 

These deformed young traps are incapable of attracting and capturing insects, so removal of the damaged traps is advisable as soon as they are noticed.  Careful examination of the plant, especially new growth, once or twice a week should reveal any greenfly and allow action to be taken before any serious damage is done. 

Control of the pest is most easily achieved by the use of a systemic insecticide when there is evidence of greenfly within the greenhouse. 

Diseases

Grey Mould (Botrytis)

Experience has shown the only disease likely to affect Dionaea's is Grey Mould (Botrytis cinerea).  This is normally caused by poor hygiene combined with damp, cool conditions during the winter months.  In particular the plant should have all dead material removed and remain subjected to good ventilation and light conditions throughout the winter months.  Ensure the compost is only just kept moist throughout the dormant season. 

If it is felt necessary, preventative treatment (in addition to the above) can be taken by using a systemic fungicide throughout the winter season.  If Botrytis is found to be affecting a plant, all the affected areas should be removed as soon as possible,  Reduce the chance of further infection by spraying with a systemic fungicide, ensuring the compost is kept only just moist, and maintain the conditions as detailed above. 

Bacterial Decay

Though not strictly a disease it is worth mentioning here.  Sometimes a trap will capture an insect that is too big, either for the trap to entirely close, or for it to fully digest.  In this event bacterial decay of the insect will occur, the resulting infection spreading to the trap itself and will gradually kill the entire trap.  Should this occur simply remove the trap once it is is completely dead.