Date: Thu, 17 Apr 1997 11:05:57 -0400 (EDT) From: CMcdon0923@aol.com To: cp@opus.hpl.hp.com Message-Id: <aabcdefg1489$foo@default> Subject: Re. VFT Traps Dying, and ????
I have had the same problem with my VFT traps turning black and dying after
feeding them what are commonly referred to as 'Box Elder bugs/beetles'. I
tried these bugs since I have (literally) THOUSANDS around some of the trees
in my yard.
Just yesterday, one of the larger traps began re-opening after dining on one
of these critters. This is the first trap to successfully do so! All but
this one trap have died, without ever reopening, within a week of being fed
one. Guess I gotta change the menu?
And now, a question or two:
1. Some of my N. madagascarensis have a 'splotchy' yellow-green color in
their leaves. The plants seem healthy otherwise (well develped albeit tiny
pitchers) but I question the color. Many of the newer leaves have much better
coloration. Could it be insufficient lighting? They are in a terrarium, <10"
below two 48"/40W flourescent tubes. Humidity ranges from 70 to 95% (lights
on vs. lights off), temperature is around 70F. They are NOT kept in
water-filled trays, but are top-watered (distilled) about every other day to
keep the medium wet.
2. My 'Home Depot brand' D. adalae, which appears VERY healthy, just started
sending up two flower/seed scapes. Should I let them go, or cut them off? I
ask because I do not want the main plant to suffer from their being allowed
to continue. I lost a beautiful little Ping immediately after it flowered,
and don't want the same to happen to this plant. However, if the plant can
tolerate it, I wouldn't mind the flowers and/or seeds.
Thanks for any help anyone may be able to offer.
Craig McDonald
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