Question
N. Alata-1
1) Nepthene Alata
2) Some of the smaller to medium-sized pitchers on my Nepthenes have started to turn brown at the top. This is within 2 weeks of purchasing. There are several large, healthy pitchers still on it, but the smaller ones coming in are also turning brown at the top. Why would this be happening? Should I simply trim off the smaller brown pitchers?
3) It is in medium-bright light with the soil in which I purchased it (composition unknown)
4) I live in Montreal, Quebec (East Coast) and the weather has changed from high head and humidity to cooler and drier, although the plant resides indoors and the ambient temperature (apart from humidity) is relatively constant
5) photo not available.
AnswerHi Sonia,
Thank-you for sending the photo. This is a Nepenthes x "deRooses alata", a very vigorous hybrid. This is a commonly mass marketed plant.
Frequently when bringing a new Nepenthes home they go through a transition period while they adjust to the new conditions of your home. Older pitchers will often die off. Just cut those off. In time newer ones will grow. Pitcher production is directly related to how much light the plant is getting, so be sure to keep it in a sunny window, despite anything the plant's tag may have said. You will probably loose all of the pitchers during the winter when days are short, and new pitchers will grow when days get longer. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
Good Growing!
Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
http://www.cobraplant.com
