Question
N. Sanguinea Concerns
Hello,
I purchased this N.Sanguinea from you a few years ago. (The pot you sold me had 2 plants in it, both have stayed together.)
It has been growing indoors, either in indirect sunlight or artificial lights up until a month ago. For the last 4 weeks, I moved the plant outside (it is summer, temps around 85-90F, Coastal Los Angeles, CA) where it receives direct afternoon sunlight. Everything has been fine until a week and a half ago when the leaves started turning a faint yellow with subtle hints of orange. I figured it was a safe reaction to the direct sunlight. However, within the last 3 days, it went from mostly green with slight yellow/orange tints to what seems to be scorched coloration. The photo points out bright red blotches at the stem-leaf joints and the progression of some of the leaves going limp to dried. These concerns are of course in addition to the color changes on the leaves.
I have looked online and read about similar symptoms being the result of a fungal infection (from over watering).
Please help me! I love my plant!
AnswerHi Garrett,
Thanks for sending the photo. That always helps.
What you've had happen here is severe sunburn. When you move a plant (any plant) from a shadier area such as in a house to a full sun location burn is inevitable. Nepenthes like it sunny through a window, but glass blocks 80% of Ultraviolet light. When moving outdoors it has to be done gradually, and they will always need some shade, especially in your area of the country. Afternoon sun is particulary harsh.
Your plant probably won't die, but you should cut off the most badly burned leaves. Your plant will look more attractive if you cut it back also so it can bush out with new growth.
In the future if you want a Nepenthes outdoors try hanging one under a tree. That gives them dappled light which they enjoy.
Good Growing!
Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
http://www.cobraplant.com
