I live a short distance from Rob Sacilotto of Botanique and was able to
witness the transformation of his collection as it occured. I have seen
the same changes in my collection as well.
The most dramatic changes for me have occured in Nepenthes seedlings.
Plants given up as dead, are still alive and growing rapidly after 8 months of
tannin treatment. Mature plants, for me, show little change.
I have tried peat tea, commercial blackwater extracts, and black tea. I find
that all give the same results. I have been using only black tea for the
last six months.
I am not as careful as Rob in taking precautions against fungal infections.
My stock solution of black tea has a thick scum of water molds inhabiting it.
I just brush them aside and pour off the tea into my watering bucket. No
problems - yet.
Tim Williams
tim.williams@cho.ge.com