Pro-Mix HP: Why Commercial Potting Mixes Kill Carnivorous Plants

Ed asked about using Pro-Mix HP (peat-based with mycorrhizae, limestone pH adjustment, wetting agent) for carnivorous plants.

Hard No

Jeff Dallas warned this would likely kill Venus flytraps and sundews. Key problems:

• Limestone: Raises pH to neutral—carnivorous plants need acidic media.
• Wetting agents: Often detergents that damage sensitive roots.

Industry Blind Spot

Jeff recounted losing a D. adelae crop to a similar mix (Teufel Products). Most commercial mixes are unsafe unless explicitly labeled for carnivorous plants—rare outside specialty nurseries. He noted even Scotts Miracle-Gro peat moss has killed countless flytraps.

Good Growing!
Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
www.growcarnivorousplants.com