Question
Hi guys, I just bought a very large Nepenthes x Miranda hybrid and I live in Alabama (zone 7). I was wondering if it would be safe to grow it outside in the sun as soon as the temperature goes up and stays well above 65 degrees? It also has very small buds on the end of all the leaves and I was wondering if it is normal not to have fully-formed pitchers this early.
Thanks!
John O.

Answer
Hi John,

While this Nepenthes will tolerate cool nights, make sure that the nights are above 55癋.  Spring weather can be very unstable, so you'll need to watch the nighttime temperature at least until May.

You will also need to acclimate your plant to sunlight.  There will be a period where you might see some leaf burn on the older leaves.  This is normal and many times unavoidable, but the new leaves will adapt perfectly to sunlight.

With proper watering and sunlight your plant will start producing lots of large pitchers.  In fall, you'll need to bring your plant indoors. Depending on your lighting, you can continue to see pitchers throughout the winter months, though they might be fewer and smaller in size.

For more information about growing Nepenthes, read our general care information online and watch our video podcasts:
http://www.cobraplant.com/caresheets
http://www.cobraplant.com/podcasts

Good growing!
Jacob Farin