Diagnosing Dying Nepenthes Mikei: Root Health Check

Blackening Leaves Indicate Root Problems

A Nepenthes mikei in Dallas (78°F summer, 65–68°F winter, east window, terrarium, distilled water, daily mist) turned black at growing point. Other highlanders show similar issues. Photo suggests poor root health—likely bacteria, fungus, or parasites.

Action Steps

1. Unpot and inspect roots: tiny bugs/worms = parasites (treat with insecticide).
2. Smell media: funky odor = bacteria/fungus (spray sulfur fungicide).
3. Repot in fresh media in either case; recovery takes ~3 months.
4. Allow top soil to dry slightly before watering.