Play Sand vs Perlite for Carnivorous Plants: Silica Sand Required

A Florida grower can't find fertilizer-free perlite, asks about Home Depot play sand or pure peat.

Sand Substitute

• YES, silica sand works for perlite
• "Play sand" = generic, may be beach sand (salt/calcium)
• Must find "silica sand" or "horticultural sand"
• Check construction or garden section

Pure Peat

• Works short-term but compacts
• Perlite/sand improves aeration long-term