Nepenthes Talk EP5 – Fertilizers, Growing Challenges & Hybrid Insights | With Beauze Menzies (Cross Exotics)Hosted by: Rob Cantley – Borneo ExoticsGuest: Beauze Menzies – Cross Exotics (USA)In this episode of Nepenthes Talk, Rob Cantley of Borneo Exotics interviews Beauze Menzies of Cross Exotics about Nepenthes cultivation. They explore Beauze's journey in plant care, his focus on magnesium and fertiliser balance for healthier growth, and the challenges of growing Highland species in warm climates. Listeners will gain practical tips on indoor setups, greenhouse management, hybrid vigour, and market trends post-COVID. This discussion provides valuable insights for both beginner and advanced growers aiming for strong growth and vibrant foliage in these fascinating carnivorous plants.👉 Browse and find out how to buy them here: https://www.borneoexotics.com/catalogueChapters1. 00:00:00 - Opening2. 00:00:37 - Welcome to the JungleRob Cantley officially welcomes viewers and introduces his guest, Beauze Menzies, setting the stage for a deep dive into the world of Nepenthes.3. 00:01:43 - From Snake Plants to PitchersBeauze recounts his horticultural origins with Sansevierias and the journey that led him to become a Nepenthes specialist and distributor.4. 00:02:19 - Taming the Highlands at HomeA look at the immense challenge of replicating perfect Highland conditions in the US, and the high costs of air conditioning and humidity control.5. 00:04:32 - The Boom, The Bust, The FutureAnalysing the volatile Nepenthes market: the Covid boom, the subsequent decline, and the hopeful future driven by new hybrids.6. 00:06:59 - The Secret Sauce: Cracking the Nutrient CodeBeauze delves into the science of fertiliser, revealing the critical role of magnesium and the development of his own tailored plant food.7. 00:13:21 - Roots vs. Leaves: The Fertiliser DebateA friendly but firm disagreement on the best method to feed these carnivorous plants—through the soil or through the leaves?8. 00:14:21 - The Diabolica DilemmaThe heart of the conflict: Rob addresses Beauze's public claims about weak tissue-cultured plants, defending his nursery's reputation and practices.9. 00:21:37 - The Art of the PruneShifting from conflict to cultivation, the discussion turns to pruning techniques and managing plant size for better form and basal growth.10. 00:22:22 - Breeding the Next GenerationRob unveils Borneo Exotics' massive hybridising program, moving from random crosses to selectively breeding for beauty and hardiness.11. 00:28:25 - Portrait of a CollectorExploring the psychology of Nepenthes enthusiasts—from those who collect every species to those obsessed with a single favourite.12. 00:31:33 - Peltata Mania and Species ObsessionsA fun look at the niche collectors who focus all their energy on a single species, like the elusive "Peltata Man."13. 00:33:48 - The Foundation of Growth: Media MasteryA technical deep-dive into the perfect potting mix.14. 00:41:33 - Substrate ShowdownComparing the pros and cons of every growing medium from sphagnum to akadama, and why consistency is a grower's biggest challenge.15. 00:46:28 - Seeds of Wisdom & Future TalksThe conversation winds down as Rob promotes his nursery, thanks his guest, and teases future discussions with other growing legends.Nepenthes Talk is a long-form conversation series by Borneo Exotics, sharing insights on Nepenthes growing techniques, fertiliser experiments, and the future of carnivorous plant cultivation.Subscribe to explore:Expert Nepenthes care and growing tipsHybrid and species discussionsBehind-the-scenes looks at Borneo Exotics.Advice from world leading Nepenthes growers