Nepenthes Care & Maturity
Nepenthes are a variety of carnivorous plants often nicknamed Monkey Cups and are indigenous to Southeast Asia, particularly Borneo, and even Northern Australia. Nepenthes grow long, tube-like "traps" which contain a fluid of the plant's own production and is used to drown prey. This fluid contains viscoelastic biopolymers that are crucial to the retention of winged and crawling insects alike.
Watering: Keep soil moist at all times. Unlike other carnivores, the nepenthes does not enjoy bog-like conditions and should not be kept in standing water. Also more tolerant of impurities, but still prefers RO, distilled, or rainwater for long-term healthy growth.
Light Requirements: Bright filtered light.
Humidity Needs: Moderately high, 70-80% is ideal.
Soil Preference: Prefers low-nutrient soils. The ideal mix includes equal parts long-fibered sphagnum moss, perlite, and - optionally - orchid bark.
Fertilizing: Naturally caught or dropped bugs are the primary method of fertilization for this plant. Unlike other carnivores, however, the nepenthes also benefits from application of a weak foliar spray 2-3x/month during spring and summer.
Repotting: Repot when root mass begins to outgrow its current pot or at least every 2-3 years to ensure soil quality.
Pet Safe: Yes
Dormancy Period: None
Common Issues: Rot due to standing water is the most common issue for nepenthes. Just remember that they do not prefer the same bog-like conditions as other carnivores.
Leave a comment
Comments will be approved before showing up.
