Wildfire Ash on Carnivorous Plants: Alkaline Hazard – Rinse Sideways Immediately

Southern CA fire ash falling for a week = **major threat**. Wood ash contains **potassium hydroxide (lye) – highly alkaline**.

Emergency Rinse Protocol

• **Hold pots sideways** and rinse – don't let ash soak into soil.
• Rinse **daily** until ashfall stops.
• **Cover plants** if possible (shade cloth, screens).

Why It's Dangerous

Alkaline ash raises media pH, destroys the acidic environment carnivorous plants require, and can chemically burn roots.

Proactive rinsing saves collections.