Nepenthes Decline in Philippines: Coco Peat Salt and Water Hardness

Grower in Philippines (29–32°C, 7h light under polycarbonate, coco peat 70%/perlite 30%, filtered tap water, no fertilizer) sees mineral/salt damage after ~1 year.

Likely Causes

1. Coco peat salt: All coir contains salt despite labels. Must soak & rinse multiple times before use.
2. Water hardness: Carbon filters don't remove minerals; only RO does. If filter is a softener, it adds salt.

Remedy

• Repot into fresh media (re-rinse coir thoroughly).
• Water with rain/distilled as much as possible.
• Test tap water TDS; aim ≤50 ppm.