How to propagate Nepenthes

Asexual reproduction

Cuttings

This is the most commonly used method for pitcher plants. Just cut the branches with buds and directly plant them in new soil. When cutting branches, keep 2 to 3 buds and 1 to 2 leaves.

Air layering

This is a safer method of reproduction. For pitcher plants with a low success rate of cuttings, layering can be used.

✔Choose a branch close to the tip and peel the bark between 2 to 3 nodes, with a thickness of one-fourth of the stem.

✔Apply a layer of rooting agent and fungicide on the peeled area, wrap it with a layer of sphagnum moss with a thickness of more than 5cm , and then cover it with plastic wrap.

✔When propagating by layering, roots can only take shape in a dark environment. Therefore, wrap the container with a layer of tin foil to prevent light from passing through.

✔After packaging, it takes about 2 to 4 months to grow roots. During this period, open the tin foil frequently to check to avoid damaging the new roots. Keep the soil moist and once roots grow, you can plant!

Tissue culture

Go to a flower shop to buy special culture medium, which is usually used for cultivation from March to June . Roots will grow in about 20 days.

Sexual reproduction

Sexual reproduction involves sowing seeds, but it is not easy.

Seed storage

Nepenthes seeds are not easy to preserve. Some people store them in the refrigerator ( 4 °C), but low temperatures will accelerate the death of the seeds and they can only be preserved for a few weeks, so the seeds must be planted in time after harvesting.

sowing

✔The seeds of pitcher plants are very small, so it is best to choose finer soil. When sowing, mix the seeds with a small amount of sand and spread them directly into the soil.

✔After planting, keep the air humidity, cover the pot with plastic wrap and poke a few small holes.

✔Place the pot in the sun with appropriate shading. A slightly brighter location will help germination.