Nepenthes ventricosa - spots on leaves, possible fungus on soil

[TENroaches]

When feeding a bug to my Nep today, I noticed some spots on the leaves. And then when taking pictures, I noticed some light grey stuff on the soil. I noticed a small amount before and might have sprayed it with a sulfur-based fungicide, I can't remember for sure. But I saw a lot more today.

I grow it up in that glass block window. My initial thought was that the south-facing glass block window can magnify the light at certain points when it shines in, burning parts. And I was thinking that's what's turning the soil a dark burnt color.

Then I saw the grey stuff under the plant.

I would say the humidity is right around or just under 50%. I did let it get a little dry once a week or so ago, and I have started feeding it boxelders. Three or four in total.

Should I spray with my sulfur-based fungicide? Neem? Repot? It's been in the same pot and soil since July '09. I noticed the soil turning black in March '10.

Oh, and I water with RO water and it drains out the bottom.

 

[Exo]

I think a repot is in order....that is probably the cause of both problems.....that soil looks...dead.

 

[PolishJeff]

I'm also having trouble with my ventricosa at the moment. I think a re-pot is definitely in order in your situation. The media look condensed and possibly not allowing much air to the roots. I think this was the same problem i was having.

When I first saw your grey growth, I thought about circulation? Is the air pretty stagnant next to the glass? Good air circulation would probably stunt the growth of that grey fuzzy stuff.

I hope this helps and good luck! Wait for the more experienced growers to chime in, they're real helpful.

 

[TENroaches]

I think a repot is in order....that is probably the cause of both problems.....that soil looks...dead.

Quick question: last time I repotted it, I didn't break up the orchid bark into small pieces. Should I have? I had big chunks in there.

 

[Exo]

Quick question: last time I repotted it, I didn't break up the orchid bark into small pieces. Should I have? I had big chunks in there.

It might be a good idea to make them a bit smaller this time....it will prove more drainage through the entire mix.