Perry Malouf seemed to question the applicability of peat in Nepenthes soils
(not being a Nepenthes grower I wouldn't dream of arguing). But I seem to
Recall that Botanique's experiments with peat tea first used Nepenthes as
subjects, with dramatic results (though not so dramatic apparently as the
all-red S. flavas).
Rob at Botanique also mentioned using actual tea leaves as a substitute for
tannin in his presentation at the Eastern CP convention. I've tried this
approach (can't get my wife to let go of her good stock pot for peat soup
yet) and it did indeed seem (anecdotally) to improve the coloration and
growth of VFT and several varieties of Sarracenia (rubra rubra, flava,
alata).
Rob also suggested experimenting with other known sources of tannin (oak
leaves and acorns are plentiful in my neighborhood). Reports on any of these
methods over time would be helpful.
Jay Lechtman (L235@aol.com)
"People who live in glass houses should grow CP"