Question
I'm growing two Sarracenias at the moment, a leucophylla and an alata. My question is what is a good topsoil covering for them besides sphagnum moss (as I do not have any)?

I have seen some people place a layer of sand or rocks on the top of the soil to help prevent evaporation. Is this safe?

Answer
Hi Heather,

We've used rainbow pea gravel in the past.  I've also used coconut chips and even orchid bark.  It depends some on why you want a top-dressing.  Is it to prevent splash erosion?  Decorative?  You can use a variety of materials as long as they are not alkaline or add any nutrients to the soil.  There's no reason you have to have a top-dressing on the soil.  If you use pea gravel, be cautious during really hot weather.  It can burn new shoots on smaller plants.  Otherwise, if you're in cooler climate like ours, it can actually help get the soil temperature a degree or two which speeds growth.

Good Growing!

Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
http://www.cobraplant.com