Expert: Christopher Littrell - 7/20/2010

Question
Hello,

I have a question about growing my Nepenthes (a highland hybrid called N. Kohala) outdoors during the summer. I live in a high desert climate with hot temperatures (days: 95 - 100 degrees, nights: 60 - 65 degrees), and low humidity (10 to 30% depending on the time of day).

Will growing my highland Nepenthes outside in these conditions adversely impact the plant? Is there anything extra I should be doing? Perhaps watering it everyday?

The plant has been outside about 5 days now so I haven't been able to see any impact on leaf size or pitchering yet.

Thank you for any help you can provide.

Regards,

Brad

Answer
Hello Brad,

Many species of Nepenthes can tolerate and adapt to low humidity. I am unfamiliar with N. kohala, so I do not know if it has any specific requirements that would make the plant less capable of tolerating such an environment as you described. If the plant has had time to adapt to low humidity, it should be fine so long as it does not have full exposure to sun or heat in the middle of the day. Most Nepenthes are only tolerant of temperatures of up to 90 degrees or so. Certainly keeping the plant hydrated on a constant basis would be helpful in a hot, dry environment.

Should you notice a loss of pitchers, lack of development in new tendril pitcher nubs, and browning or leaf burn on leaves, shade the plant further or just take it indoors and grow it under artificial light if possible.

Sarracenia Northwest experts may have additional information about your hybrid and might have some good advice on growth and care of that species in your environment.

Christopher