Question
Brown Tips on VFT
I have uploaded an image of 1 of my VFT's for you to please look at. Can you try to explain what the brownish tips on the VFT's are and why they might be like that? Should the BROWN TIPS just be cut off OR should the WHOLE stems that have brown tips be cut off? I will say that I see some that are fine and the tips are green but the others are brownish. Also, can you tell me what brand name of the water trays you use that are rectangular? I have been looking everywhere for them. Thank you again for your time! -Marc Anthony-
AnswerThank you for uploading the photo. That helps me a bit. When I see brown tips and small traps like this, I immediately think of one of three things:
1) Using hard water (water high in minerals).
2) Using fertilizers.
3) Using the wrong soil ingredients.
These are the common factors that contribute to brown tips. Simply cutting them off won't change the situation. You essentially need to repot the plant into a fresh soil mix using the recommended soil ingredients (peat moss and perlite).
The plant also look a bit pale, which also indicates low light levels. However, since you didn't supply me with information about how you're growing the plant, I can't offer any guidance on what you can do differently.
So based solely on the information that you provided, my only recommendation is for you to repot your plant in fresh soil. It won't matter if you cut the stems off or not. That won't change the situation. You basically need to wait for new growth before you see normal traps again.
If you feel that your water and soil is correct, please write back with details about your growing conditions. Use the outline posted on the submissions page. All of the requested information is important to properly diagnosis your situation and provide relevant recommendations.
As for the trays, we get them from a nursery wholesale supplier. There is no specific brand. Many garden centers sometimes carry them.
Good growing!
Jacob Farin
