Question
QUESTION: I got a C. Follicularis 3 weeks ago and I am growing it in a makeshift terrarium. It's a gallon milk jug with the funnel-shaped part cut off. I keep the top open so that the air circulates and grow it under a 42-watt compact flourescent bulb. Now, however, the soil has taken on a sulfurous odor. I changed its water and flushed the soil, and that helped somewhat, but am I doing something wrong? How should I take care of this bacterial(?) problem? I really don't want to lose it, it's such a cool plant!

ANSWER: Hi Corey,

It is super, super important that Cephalotus have good drainage in the soil, and that the soil is damp, but not waterlogged.  If you're little terrarium isn't draining, that's the problem.

Here's a better set-up.  Transplant your plant to a 5" terracotta pot. (You read it right; this is one of the few cp that do better in clay pots.)  Follow the soil mix on our care sheet:  http://www.cobraplant.com/cephalotus.html  Now, continue to use your compact fluorescent light.  Put a saucer under the pot, but never keep more than 1/2" of water in the saucer.  Instead of a terrarium, just put a small clear cup or glass over the plant.  Cephalotus is small enough to do this easily.  As the plant recovers, slowly harden it off to normal room humidity.  Depending upon your normal humdidity in your area, you may need just a partial cover for the plant long-term.  The biggest thing to remember with Ceph's is not to keep them too wet, and temperatures in the 70''s and low 80's.


Good Growing!

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

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I have it in a 3-inch plastic pot with four drainage holes and california carnivores' ceph mix that it came in. Humidity in my room is generally around 50-55%. The jug is just what it sit in, with about 1/4 in. of water. Will it be able to not be in the jug (It's sort of robbing the plant's beauty with its tackiness.) Has any long-term damage been done? I only noticed it yesterday. Thanks again for your wonderful advice!

Answer
Hi Corey,

The jug will probably do more harm than good.  As I mentioned,   just a little extra humidity may be good, but not a full enclosure.  Also getting the plant to a larger pot is very beneficial.  Cephalotus like space for their roots.  I would also avoid leaving much water in the tray.  That sulfur smell you mentioned is from peat breaking down, and that occurs when it is waterlogged.  It's also good to do lots of top watering of the pot.  This helps to keep the soil fresh, and flushes out impurities.

Good Growing!

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