Perlite pH Concerns for Sarracenia leucophylla: Choosing the Right Aggregate

Supreme Perlite (silica-based) is pH-neutral. If your local perlite is alkaline, substitute silica sand, small lava rock, or pumice—these open the peat without adding nutrients or altering pH. The 50/50 peat/perlite ratio is flexible; many growers adjust proportions based on conditions.

If only alkaline perlite is available, use straight peat or long-fiber sphagnum—better than alkaline media. Sarracenia tolerate a range of mixes as long as they're nutrient-free and acidic.