When to Take Nepenthes Cuttings: Nepenthes ventricosa

A grower's N. ventricosa has a long woody stem with a tight leaf cluster at the top and two vigorous basal shoots. They ask if they should cut the top cluster to give the basal shoots more light.

Expert Advice: Timing and Technique Matter

Jacob Farin clarifies: "cutting" can mean trimming for aesthetics or propagation. For propagation, wait until nodal spacing (gap between leaves) is ~1 inch for easier success. Woody stems root poorly; green stems root best. Practice on green sections first.

For aesthetic trimming, cut anytime—removing the woody vine won't harm the plant. Cut near the base for a compact look. Personal preference rules.

Good Growing!

Jacob Farin