Tropical Pitcher Plants (Nepenthes) Growing Guide
Sun:
Most Nepenthes thrive in very bright, diffused light or partly sunny conditions. Many can be easily grown on a sunny windowsill. Terrariums with high-powered fluorescent lights are ideal; we recommend using four T-5 lights.
Water:
In greenhouses, avoid using the tray method of watering entirely. Instead, place containers on benches or hang them so water can freely drain away. In terrariums and on windowsills, place the pot in a shallow saucer and water overhead as soon as the water in the saucer evaporates. Do not allow the pot to sit in deep water for extended periods, as this can lead to root rot. Ensure all pots have drainage holes.
Temperature:
Nepenthes are tropical plants, categorized into lowlanders and highlanders.
- Lowlanders: These come from low elevations in tropical Southeast Asia. They prefer constant temperatures in the 80s with high humidity. Some species can grow on sunny windowsills in warm homes. They are not tolerant of low temperatures.
- Highlanders: These thrive with daytime temperatures in the 70s and 80s and require a nighttime temperature drop of about 10-20 degrees to thrive. Most highlanders can be easily grown on sunny windowsills. Temperatures below the low 40s can damage or kill them.
For a detailed guide on Nepenthes temperature ranges by species, refer to the Nepenthes Guide.
Dormancy:
No dormancy period is needed.
Soil:
Nepenthes prefer loose, open soil that remains wet to moist but allows excess water to drain. They are tolerant of a wide variety of soil mixes. The best mix is about three parts New Zealand long-fibered Sphagnum moss to one part of coarse materials, such as perlite, orchid bark, pumice, tree-fern fiber, lava rock, or charcoal.
Fertilizer/Feeding:
MaxSea fertilizer can be applied once per month to the leaves and pitchers of the plant, avoiding pouring it through the soil. Osmocote 16-16-16 fertilizer pellets are also beneficial; place one pellet into each new pitcher as it opens.
