Question
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am currently growing Sarracenia flava and am in need of some new compost. I do not want to purchase peat and wandered if you knew of any good alternatives. I have been told that coir can kill them.

I would be very grateful if you can advise me on any successful alternatives.

With kindest regards

Simon Terry

Answer
Hi Simon,

I understand your issues about peat moss.  The only reliable peat substitute for growing Sarracenia is sphagnum moss, either live or dried.  You can use straight live sphagnum with your Sarracenia.  Sarracenia grow phenomenally well in it.  The only problem is finding enough of it for your collection.  If you use dried sphagnum moss, then you should add equal amounts of perlite or pumice to improve the drainage.

Please keep in mind that this substitution is only appropriate for Sarracenia.  It will not work long-term for flytraps and sundews.

Here are also a couple links about peat moss:
http://www.peatsociety.org/
http://www.peatmoss.com/index.php

Good growing!
Jacob Farin