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Me and my partner are very new to collecting we are both pro gardeners but never touched these guys till now.

Question is can we use a normal compost or does it have to be peat based just wanted to be kind to the environment

Thanks in advance

Nick and Sophie

Edited by Nick1976
Didn't sound right wrong spelling
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You shouldn't use normal horticultural compost since CPs do not want the nutrients contained in regular compost as this can be harmful to them.  The compost you use should not contain any added nutrients but it certainly does not have to be peat.

Bark chippings are a common ingredient together with perlite and coarse sand or horticultural grit to ensure good drainage and aeration.  A common mix is Bark chips: Perlite: Grit in the ratio of 1 : 1 : 1 or 2 : 1 : 1 if preferred.  Bark chippings should be around 0 - 5 mm and Grit 2 - 6 mm ideally.  This mix is good for Sarracenias and Drosera but you may wish to add peat for Dionaeas and Pinguiculas.

Also, you should only use rainwater to water your plants and keep them in water filled tray with the water around 2 cm deep.

You can substitute peat for the bark chippings above but not sure how much longer peat will be available.  Other people have tried coir in the mix with varying degrees of success.  Most CP nurseries will suggest the compost mix to use for the plants they sell and, of course, sell you their CP compost as well!

Kind regards,  Rob

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