Pitcher plants are among the exotic plants that require an experienced gardener's hand. For beginners who want to get into this hobby, Nepenthes hybrids are a good place to start. These cultivated forms are much more robust and easier to care for. Proper care of the Nepenthes hybrid.
How to care for Nepenthes hybrid?
Caring for Nepenthes hybrids requires keeping the substrate moist at all times, with a humidity of approx.60%, regular watering in summer and less in winter and avoiding waterlogging. Use rain, distilled or boiled tap water and avoid hard water. Fertilizer and cutting are not necessary, but you should reduce the water supply in winter.
How are Nepenthes hybrids watered?
- Keep substrate moist at all times
- ideal humidity at approx. 60 percent
- spray more frequently in summer
- If necessary, increase the humidity using water bowls
You need to water Nepenthes regularly during the summer growing phase. In winter the plant needs less water. Waterlogging must be avoided at all costs.
The plant cannot tolerate hard water. Water with rainwater or distilled water. Boiled tap water is an emergency solution. If possible, do not water the substrate or the plant directly. It is beneficial if you supply the pitcher plant with water via a saucer.
If the humidity is too low, new cans will not form or the old cans will dry out prematurely. In locations that are too dry, spray the plant more frequently with water.
Do the hybrid pitcher plants need fertilizer?
If there are few insects in your area, you can occasionally supply the pitcher plant with a little orchid fertilizer (€7.00 on Amazon). However, this is not really necessary.
When does the pitcher plant need to be repotted?
Nepenthes hybrids need to be repotted if the previous pot has become too small. The best time for repotting is summer.
Is cutting Nepenthes necessary?
Pitcher plants do not need to be cut. You can cut dried cans if they are completely dry.
What diseases can occur?
Diseases only occur in wrong locations. Waterlogging can cause the roots to rot.
If the pitcher plant does not form pitchers or if it dries out prematurely, the plant is too dark or the humidity is too low.
How are Nepenthes hybrids overwintered?
Nepenthes hybrids are pure houseplants that are kept at the same temperature all year round. In winter you just need to reduce the water supply.
Do pitcher plants need to be fed?
Feeding insects is not essential. The plant gets its nutrients from the substrate and through the leaves.
Tip
Pitcher plants come in numerous types. A distinction is made between highland and lowland varieties. The hybrids are breeding forms that also thrive under normal room conditions.
