Date: Sun, 1 Oct 2000 07:47:10 -0400 From: "Steven Stewart" <steven.stewart@worldnet.att.net> To: cp@opus.hpl.hp.com Message-Id: <aabcdefg2907$foo@default> Subject: Nepenthes bicalcarata
Hello Kurt, and list,
I have some success growing Nepenthes bical. in long fiber Sphagnum moss.
Seed germinates readily on the surface of Sphagnum, but fungus can be a
problem. I do not generally use fungicides but instead transplant seedlings
_at germination_ into separate plug cells or 2" pots. This seems to keep
fungus from spreading from weak fungus prone individuals. In some species
like Nep. ventricosa I have 80 - 90% success. With N. bical. I can expect
60-80% survival, if environmental conditions are right. _Nepenthes
bicalcarata_ like warm temperatures 80+ degrees F.. Surprisingly overly
moist media is not best. This species, when a seedling, prefers evenly
moist, not wet conditions, when adult it is hard to give them enough water,
especially in summer. I cover seedling flats with plastic wrap (glass would
be better) and keep out of direct sun, until the plants are 1-2" in size.
Once most Nepenthes are this large, it is safe (in my Florida greenhouse) to
uncover and begin to water overhead, and move into bright light. If
temperatures drop into the low 70F or lower during the covered stage expect
losses, when they are over 2" damage and some losses will be noticed if
temperatures go below 50F.. I have one individual plant that shows cold
damage when temperatures dip into the 60F. range. Several have, with extreme
damage, at garden centers lived through near freezing temperatures.
Take care,
Steven Stewart
Sanford, Fl USA
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