Highland Nepenthes Terrarium Troubleshooting: Root Rot and Light Issues

A grower's N. sibuyanensis blackens and N. sp. stops growing in an 18" terrarium with shallow soil over gravel drainage. N. rajah grows slowly but okay.

Root Rot Diagnosis

• Blackening from TOP DOWN = classic root rot sign
• Shallow soil (2.5") places roots near standing water
• Nepenthes roots grow deeper — need 5-6"+ soil depth

Light/Heat Issue

• Afternoon sun through glass = intense heat buildup
• Terrariums refract light, cook plants
• Solution: Morning/evening sun only, or sheer screen at midday

Better Setup Options

1. Deepen soil: 5-6" minimum above drainage
2. Individual pots: In terrarium for humidity only
3. Media: 1/3 each peat, orchid bark, coconut fiber OR 2:1 perlite:peat
4. Watering: Minimal — keep moist, not wet; let tray dry occasionally

Fungicide on Frozen Soil

If media frozen, spray anyway — fungicide penetrates during thaws. Don't disturb frozen root ball.