Winterizing Live Sphagnum Moss and Bog Gardens in Cold Climates

Live sphagnum moss is incredibly cold-hardy (it grows above the Arctic Circle). In Beaverton, OR (or similar climates), here's how to protect it and your bog garden through bitter cold.

Sphagnum Moss Tray (with Darlingtonia Seeds)

• Keep hydrated—water every few days to maintain moisture.
• Cover with an opaque material (not clear plastic) to reduce drying and prevent solar overheating.
• Even if tips die back, the moss will regenerate from the base.

Bog Garden Winter Protection

• Timing: Cover plants before temperatures drop into single digits (or well below freezing).
• In-ground advantage: Plants in ground bogs are naturally better insulated than containers.
• Wind protection: Covering prevents desiccation from freezing winds—the primary cause of winter kill.
• Mulch materials: Use pine needles, straw, wood chips, or bark. Avoid leaves (harbor fungal spores).
• Fungicide: Spray plants and mulch with sulfur fungicide before covering.

Good Growing!

Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
www.cobraplant.com