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Using Aquarium Gravel in Carnivorous Plant Water Trays

Gravel Is Optional and Purely Aesthetic

A grower in Laguna Hills, CA keeps VFTs, sundews, and pitcher plants in plastic containers submerged in 1–2 inches of distilled water, asking if rocks or gravel can be added.

Pebble Trays Increase Humidity for Houseplants, Not Bog Plants

Gravel won’t harm plants but isn’t necessary since pots already sit in water. Pebble trays elevate pots above water for humidity-loving houseplants. For aesthetic purposes, gravel is fine.

Good Growing!
Jacob Farin

Carnivorous Plants: Plants Around a Chlorinated Pool: Salt Is the Real Enemy; Sarracenia in Winter Rain: Submersion Tolerance; Physan 20 Fungicide: Overuse Can Burn Roots; Overwintering Venus Flytraps and Sarracenia in a Seattle Apartment Without Private Outdoor Space; Sprinkler Water Unsuitable for In-Ground Bog Gardens; Deionized Water for Carnivorous Plants: Testing and Validation; Two Plants Declining While Others Thrive: Light and Water Issues; Pool Chlorine Splash: Why Carnivorous Plants Must Be Kept Away from Pool Areas; Do You Need to Let Tap Water Sit Before Watering Plants?; Green Slime on Rocks in a Fishless Pond: Bleach or Plants?

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