Testing Distilled Water Quality for Carnivorous Plants: Understanding PPM Readings

Testing Distilled Water Quality for Carnivorous Plants: Understanding PPM Readings

Both your tap water (50 ppm) and bottled distilled water (40 ppm) are actually suitable for most carnivorous plants. Venus flytraps and sundews tolerate up to 50 ppm; Sarracenia, Nepenthes, and butterworts handle slightly higher levels.

Why Distilled Water Shows 40 ppm

True distilled water should read near 0 ppm. The reading suggests either the brand's distillation process leaves trace minerals or the test kit has a margin of error. Test with an aquarium hardness kit to verify.

Better Water Sources

Reverse osmosis (RO) units produce consistently ultra-pure water. Home RO systems (75+ gallons/day) cost $100–$350. The Merlin by GE (350 GPD, ~$350) is a cost-effective choice we use at our nursery.

Good growing!