Question
Bical
Please don't judge me by the photograph.
I've had my N. Bicalcarata for a little over a year now and while I have never been able to give it the absolute best conditions it has somehow survived.
I recently repotted it in better soil and placed it in indirect sunlight above my aquarium where I am hoping it will receive the humidity it needs. From the photograph, are you able to tell me if I'm on the right track for it to pitcher or if there is something that I should do?
Thanks!
Mike
AnswerHi Michael,
Your plant looks fine, but Nepenthes bicalcurata is one of those plants that fits all the stereotypes for Nepenthes. They like it hot and humid. Daytime temperatures should be in the 90's, nights no less than 70, and humidity around 70%+. Give it those conditions, and it will grow like a weed. We don't grow them currently since we can't maintain those kind of temperatures in our greenhouse.
Your best bet for right now would be a large terrarium with fluorescent lights. That would give you the bright, warm, humid conditions it needs to pitcher. Windowsill conditions are not suitable for this plant unless you live in a tropical area. With just indirect light almost no Nepenthes will pitcher. Most need some direct sun.
Good Growing!
Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
http://www.cobraplant.com
