Question
Hello Sarracenia Northwest

I have been trying to propagate my Nepenthes sanguinea through stem cuttings twice and they all end up dyeing. Each time I used Schultz Take Root rooting hormone (a powder). I'm not sure if it has fungicide or not. Each of the sections had 3 leaves on them. I put the plants 5 inches away 2-40 watt flourescent tubes. I did it once last summer and it made new leaves but then suddenly crashed and the stem started getting brown and extremely soft. Also the plants never seemed to develop roots. I tried again about a month ago but I sprayed the long fibered sphagnum moss heavily with Bayer 3 in 1 fungicide, insecticide, miticide (following the manufacturer's instructions for diluting). But it also did the same thing. Both of the plants were in 6 inch plastic pots with a ziplock bag over it.

Can you please tell me how I can make this endeavor successful?

Thank you
-Jamie

Answer
Hi Jamie,

Try using a liquid rooting hormone, Superthrive(which contains a rooting hormone), or none at all.  Both personally, and from reports from others, we're finding the powdered hormones may not be as effective for Nepenthes.  I've usually used Rootone brand which does contain a fungicide.  Also, since, for whatever reason, sphagnum moss is giving your problems with rotting, try using straight perlite.  With the perlite you'll need to leave a little water for the pot to sit in, but this way the cutting is in a more sterile media, and not quite as wet.  Let me know how this works.

Good Growing!

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