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Carnivorous Plants/Why is this Nepenthes Venticosa looking the way it does?

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Expert: - 9/25/2010


Question

venticosa Nepethes
Allexperts,

Hey I have question about why is this nepenthes venticosa looking a little weak?  This plant
I got at Lowe's last year.  I repotted this plant in Spanghum Moss and perlite and orchid
bark all 50%. I also added peat moss but that was not added at 50%, but at like 10%.   The
plant has very weak looking leaves.  Its getting about 4-6 hours a day.  Its located in a(  I
think a west facing window.)  Note: I have a hen and chick sundew there and a prim rose
butter wort they look great. If it helps I had it outside during the summer.   I have attached
a picture.   Thank you for your time


Sincerely,

Weylin

Answer
Hi Weylin,

Thank you for the photo.  That helps me a lot.  Overall, I don't think you plant looks weak.  The leaves appear firm with good color.  There's a nice sheen, which means they're growing ambient humidity of your home.  The lower leaves might not appear as shiny as the upper leaves, but that's normal with age.

If anything, I think your plant could use more light.  When you grow this plant in strong lighting, the leaves will show hints of yellow. Some growers are alarmed about this, but it means that your ventricosa is getting optimum sunlight for pitcher production.  Try growing your plant in a south window.  In fall and winter, a south window often gets the most light.  I have several Nepenthes in my south window, and they are producing very nice pitchers, including a hamata.

After giving your plant more light, you may need to wait for a couple months before you see new pitchers again.

Good growing!
Jacob Farin
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    Commentallexperts, Thank you for helping me with my question. Sincerely, Weylin Callery


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