Ultrasonic Foggers and Salt: Risks for Carnivorous Plants

Ean purchased an ultrasonic fogger for his small greenhouse housing Nepenthes, Cephalotus, and Heliamphora. After discovering the device required a pinch of salt in distilled water to function, he questioned whether this minimal salt addition would harm his plants.

Jeff Dallas expresses caution: "I'm not really sure about the salt; I've never heard of this. However, the way ultrasonic humidifiers work it probably would put salt residue on the leaves of your plants, which would not be good." More importantly, Dallas questions the need for a humidifier in a small enclosure. "In an enclosure this small, just a few plants is going to keep the humidity fairly high from evaporation." He estimates humidity likely hovers around 70% naturally—ideal for these species.

Dallas warns that constant fog from a humidifier could cause problems, particularly for Cephalotus. Natural evaporation from plants and water trays typically provides sufficient humidity without mechanical intervention. The salt risk and potential over-humidification make foggers unnecessary and potentially harmful in small setups.

Good Growing!
Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
https://www.cobraplant.com