Question
I read that 50 ppm for minerals is required for most (all?) carnivorous plants -but I am assuming that is for plants grown in pots. I built a bog (about 80 sq ft) and added sphagnum moss which is growing.  My well water is very hard (250 ppm).  Is there any chance carnivorous plants could survive in an outdoor bog without using soft water? The location is in southern Missouri.  thanks.


Answer
Hi Jim,

You can use your well water occasionally, but on a long-term basis your plants will suffer.  Flytraps and sundews are the most sensitive, and at those levels, they will last for 2-3 months.  Sarracenia are the most tolerant.  However, with long term use, the pitchers will deform from the excess minerals.  

Even in a bog garden, the results are the same.  While it's true that mineral buildup will occur quicker in pots, the main issue is mineral exposure over a period of time.  Even with a free draining bog garden, the constant exposure to your well water would take a toll on these plants.  

Sphagnum moss isn't a good indicator about whether or not other bog plants can tolerate the water.  In the wild, sphagnum moss helps keep mineral levels low in a bog by absorbing trace minerals.  Of course, if the levels are constantly high, the tips of the moss will start to blacken over time.  Eventually, the moss will max out on what it can absorb and begin to die off.  

In your case, I recommend using a reverse-osmosis unit.  If your budget allows it, you can find one for that produces 350 gallons per day for about $375 (Merlin by GE).  Otherwise, you can find several at your local hardware store that produces 12 gallons per day for about $100.  

Avoid using water softeners.  Those units will only replace sodium for calcium.  You'll still end up with water that's unsuitable for plants.

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news.  Sarracenia would be your best bet if you choose not to use an RO unit, but don't expect them to look their best.  You'll see lots of deformity over time.  The roots will also be black and brittle when they should be white and flexible.  Otherwise, an RO unit would be a good investment to keeping a wide array of carnivorous plants.

Good growing!
Jacob Farin