Which substrate does the pitcher plant need?

This is what the substrate for Nepenthes must be like

• Relaxed
• airy
• low in nutrients
• slightly sour

You mix substrate from these materials yourself

With all materials, it is important that they remain airy for as long as possible and do not stick together. They also have to be low in nutrients, as Nepenthes rot and dies if the nutrient supply is too high.

Peat, especially white peat, is suitable as a basis. At least half of the substrate should consist of peat. To ensure sufficient loosening, you can mix in small styrofoam balls.

Since pitcher plants need sufficient moisture, water-storing materials should also be added. Gravel is suitable for this, Expanded clay,(€ 16.36 at Amazon *)Quartz sand(€ 15.15 at Amazon *) and coconut fiber.

Sphagnum is controversial as a substrate

Sphagnum is the technical term for peat moss. It can often be obtained dried in specialist shops. Some experts swear by simply pulling Nepenthes onto Sphagnum. However, peat moss must not be mixed with peat, as the substrate then sticks together too quickly.

In order to grow Nepenthes on peat moss, you should definitely create a drainage layer in the pot so that the roots of the Pitcher plant Under no circumstances stand in the water for a long time.

Create drainage in the pot

The pitcher plant does not get waterlogged at all. Make sure you have a large drainage hole in the bottom of the pot. Place larger pebbles on top to prevent the hole from clogging.

A drainage in the pot is recommended. To do this, fill the lower part of the vessel with coarse pebbles or aquarium sand and only then fill the Nepenthes substrate.

Fertilize sparingly

Whichever substrate you use, be careful not to get the pitcher plant overfertilize. Rare economical gifts of Orchid fertilizer are sufficient but not absolutely necessary.

You should also use Nepenthes regularly repot and thus provide the plant with new substrate.