Expert: Sarracenia Northwest - 9/25/2010

Question
1) Asian Pitcher Plant: Miranda
2) Although it is producing leaves, they only grow the tiny beginnings of a pitcher and then stop.  The beginning then dies.  I have 4 large leaves in this state currently.  In the past I was very successful at having 2-3 in pitchers on the same plant.
3) Plant is in a south facing window that gets direct and indirect sunlight.  Soil is a mix of peat moss and perlite.  I water a few times a week.
4) I live in the Salem,OR area
5) I don't have a pic, but can attach one if necessary.

Answer
Hi Avena,

A couple things might be going on.  First, during the summer months, south windows primarily get indirect light.  It's very normal for some Nepenthes to stop producing pitchers in summer when growing in a south window because of the relatively lower light levels.  As we progress into fall and winter, south windows will get more direct sunlight, and many Nepenthes produce lots of pitchers as a result.

Another issue might be soil health.  You mentioned a mix of peat moss and perlite.  You can use that mix for Nepenthes if there is sufficient perlite for optimum drainage.  Water should drain freely and the pot should never sit in water.  If the soil doesn't drain properly, your plant will be at risk for root rot.

If the soil is more than a year old, you should replace it to maintain optimal root health.  We outline a couple of Nepenthes soil mixes on our website:
http://www.cobraplant.com/caresheets

The soil should also be slightly damp.  Allow the top soil to dry slightly before watering again.  Just avoid letting the soil get excessively dry.

With more sunlight and a change in soil, your plant may start producing new pitchers in about 3-4 months.

Good growing!
Jacob Farin