Question
Allexperts,

 I have a question, whether or not you can use the standard potting soil to repot my Cephatatus (Australian Pitcher plant).  Or is there a specific soil I should use for this plant? Other a another note if the soil is starting to produce green beads, should I throw away the soil?  Its doesn't smell bad thou. As always thank you for your time.


Sincerely,

Weylin

Answer
Cephalotus needs a courser mix that allows for lots of aeration.  The standard mix is OK, but not optimal for Cephalotus.  An easy mix is simply 1 part peat moss, 1 part perlite and 1 part orchid bark.  The peat moss allows for water retention, while the perlite and bark provide aeration and drainage.

The green beads are likely slime mold, which eventually provide a substrate for moss.  You don't have to change the soil, but you should at least scrape it off when you see it.  Just replace the top soil with fresh soil.

Good growing!
Jacob Farin