Question

yellow spots on leaves   I was wondering if these yellow spots are indicator of a problem with my pitcher plant? I dont have much info on the care of the plant before i got it. Could it be poor watering? I noticed that the pitcher it had on it was partially brown when i got it.

Answer
Hi Robyn,

I seem to recall from the previous photo that the plant didn't look to be in the best shape.  If the previous seller didn't know much about Nepenthes, and especially if they thought the care would be similar to Sarracenia pitcher plants, they may have had it sitting in water which is a big no-no with these.  It could cause those spots.  It's almost certain they were not giving it enough light either.  

Since you've just received the plant now would be a good time to do a transplant.  Long-fiber sphagnum moss (not peat moss) makes a good planting media.  It's good to mix in some perlite with it to keep it draining well.  Potting it in a little larger pot would be good, and make sure it's a pot with drain holes.  Park the plant in a spot with partial sun (not full shade!).  If it the plant is going to live indoors, place it in a sunny window.  If it's going to live outside find a spot like under a small tree or shrub where it will get intermittent sun, or morning sun but a little shaded in the after noon.  Keep the soil moist, but never waterlogged.  After that, just give it time.  If conditions are good you should start seeing new pitchers in about a month or two.  A weak orchid fertilizer once every two weeks is good for them too.  There's information on the care sheet page about that.

Good Growing!

Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
http://www.growcarnivorousplants.com