Q.Pitcher plant
My plant seems to be thriving. It’s producing several new leaves. However, as soon as a pitcher starts to develop, it dries up and dies. What can I do? I’m in Miami. Temps around 70-80. I put it outside daily and inside nightly. I have given it orchid food twice now, 15 days apart like I was told by the seller. I fertilized the soil. I read recently though to pour directly into pitcher. Which is correct? Thanks.
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
DO NOT FEED THESE! EVER! If there are insects, then you can be sure that it is getting enough nutrients. The only reason you should use fertilizer is if it is a strict indoor plant, where there are no insects. I have seen many of these killed by fertilizing. They do not take nutrients through their roots at all.
Also, you should NEVER put any liquid in the pitcher. This will trick it, and it won't produce its own enzymes. The media it is planted in should never dry out. It is to remain moist at all times.
The pitchers will die off due to over-fertilization. This is what is happening here.
What you have is nepenthes alata. This is one of the more forgiving species.
I have many that are extremely rare, and are very difficult to care for. If you keep the humidity up, and NEVER put them into full sun, then they will be ok.
