Date: Thu, 24 Jul 1997 14:11:54 -0400 From: BREWER__CHARLES@ecomail.damneck.navy.mil To: cp@opus.hpl.hp.com Message-Id: <aabcdefg2805$foo@default> Subject: Re: More about Cephalotus
Paul, Laurent and other Ceph growers,
Good growing information on these plants. I guess there are many many
different methods to soil mix. I have also added some charcoal to my
Ceph mix, but use the professional orchid mix which contains charcoal.
Most of my Ceph's grow in course sand and peat, topped with either new
Zealand moss or live sphagnum. The open mix plays a big role, but I
would like to hear more about fertilization. What type, how much, how
often...your proven methods. I have tried using live bugs in the past,
but hate to see a large pitcher die. Maybe this is just the
characteristic of the plant in general, but it takes so long to grow
large pitchers. As I said the other day, I use some liquid fertilizer
either as a spray or pour it over the plant. I use 1/4 strength. I use
a regular orchid fertilizer, don't remember the name or strength. It
seems to really make a difference during the growing season, but I
have never tried using fertilizer during the winter. Just too scared
to.
As for the charcoal addition, this sounds good, but I would caution
people reading this message Not to go home and up root their Ceph's
just to add charcoal to the mix. If the plant is doing well, leave it
alone. If not, your call. I would rather you wait until the next time
you transplant your plant, then add the charcoal. Ceph's do not like
to be disturbed and will respond by dropping leaves and traps.
I have also heard about a Ceph that has pitchers up to three inches
long. I am looking for this clone, if you have one and want to trade,
I have some good stuff to trade with. email me privately.
I would like to know more about cloning these plants from cuttings,
divisions, etc. I use the method of removing a leaf and placing it
into some live sphagnum moss. I get about 60% success rate out of this
method and less using just pitchers. I also cut the plant off at the
ground and plant the top portion in live sphagnum moss. This will take
root within a couple of weeks or so. The mother plant will soon heal
itself and start sending up new growths. Before you know it, you have
two more beauties. I don't usually use rooting power on cuttings, but
I have been thinking about it lately. Are there any other proven
cloning methods out there that anyone cares to add to this
discussion?. If so, "Bring it on".
Charles Brewer
Va. Beach, Va.
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