Question
In nov, I ordered two N diatas from you.  I decided to put one in an open tank under a compact fl bulb (100w) and the other in the south window to see what happened.

Well, what happened is that the one under the bulb looks like crap!  Not only has it not grown as well as the other, but now the tips of the new leaves are blackening before then even finish growing out.  The only other thing that I did differently was that the one in the tank had a tray under it and while it didn't sit in water all of the time, it may have had a bit more than the other one.  I was wondering if it'll pull out of this (now that it is in the window with the other one) or if I should get drastic.  Would it accomplish anything other than instant death to the plant if I snipped off the small growing part and treated it like a cutting?  I guess I was worried that there could be an issue with the roots that that might help.

Any thoughts?

Answer
Hi Brian,

Sorry for taking so long to get back to you.  We've had shows to get ready for, and have been swamped.

Those symptoms do sound like the plant is a bit too wet.  Moving it to the window is a good idea for two reasons.  One is that the light will be better quality.  The other is that N. diatas is definitely a highlander, and will enjoy the cooler temperatures.  This could also have something to do with the problems since it might have been a bit warm in the terrarium.  Also try using some Superthrive on the plant to encourage root development.  I wouldn't be in favor of taking the cutting unless it was a large plant.  I'm not sure how well diatas strikes from cuttings.

Good Growing!

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