Question
Hi snw I previosly posted a question regarding my ventrata's nectar. well it is making some but it doesn't appear to do anything at all bugs go near the compact flourescent bulb above it but ignore the plant. Well on a different note I will soon be buying a n. Ramispina. I live near buffalo ny in an apartment with normal humidity. Could you give me the details about this plant and humidity adaptation like what kind of bag. I was thinking a paper bag would prevent litghting and how often do you make the holes. Thanks!

Answer
Hi Steven,

Nepenthes generally attract crawling insects, such as ants.  They'll capture a few flying insects, but keep in mind that insects will get attracted to the nectar when they're ready to feed.  Otherwise, they'll be attracted to bright shiny things, such as a light bulb.

I don't recommend using any humidity dome for Nepenthes.  There are of course exceptions, such as ultra highland Nepethes, but the vast majority of Nepenthes that are commercially available acclimate well as houseplants.  Nepenthes ramispina is a very close relative to Nepenthes sanguinea.  Both plants grow in the same location in Malaysia and acclimate to lower humidity just fine.

I've grown both species to adult size in a west window in my home, without a terrarium or humidity dome.  Even in the summer months, the humidity will drop below 20%.  As long as you keep the soil moist and provide strong lighting, your plant will acclimate to its new surroundings.

Just a few weeks ago, we completed filming a DVD on how to grow Nepenthes as houseplants.  It'll be available for sale in November.

For more information about growing these and other types of carnivorous plants, watch our video podcasts and read our care sheets on our main website:
http://www.cobraplant.com/videos
http://www.cobraplant.com/caresheets

Good growing!
Jacob Farin