Danger: Miracle-Gro Peat and Perlite Kill Carnivorous Plants

Why Fertilized Peat Moss Is Deadly and What to Use Instead

A grower discovered their peat moss and perlite were "enriched with plant food" (Miracle-Gro brand) after repotting flytraps, pitcher plants, and sundews.

The Problem

Miracle-Gro and similar brands add fertilizer to peat and perlite. Carnivorous plants evolved in nutrient-poor soils; added nutrients burn roots, cause blackening, and kill plants within weeks. Sarracenia tolerate it slightly better; flytraps and sundews die quickly.

Immediate Action

• Repot ALL affected plants immediately in pure, unfertilized media.
• Use 1:1 premium Canadian sphagnum peat moss and perlite (or silica sand).
• Source from carnivorous plant nurseries (e.g., CobraPlant, California Carnivores) to guarantee purity.

What to Look For

Labels saying "feeds for 3 months," "enriched," "with plant food," or showing NPK numbers. Avoid ANY bagged product not explicitly labeled for carnivorous plants.

Outcome

Plants in fertilized media will shrink progressively. Quick repotting saves most; delay risks total loss.