Expert: Sarracenia Northwest - 5/9/2010

Question
Hello, I got a packaging of Dried New Zealand Sphagnum Moss and it says, "A premium quality, all natural and sterile growing medium and lining material with high zinc content, that helps promote healthy plants."  It also says that orchid growers like to use it because of its high zinc content that reduces the risk of root damage, and provides a beneficial source of humidity for plants.  And I also do know that orchids grow in basically nutrient free soil as well.  And it also says that it was farmed in New Zealand, holds 20 its water weight, reduces drying out, and all natural.

I visited several sites and they said that New Zealand Sphagnum Moss naturally has a high zinc content in the form of an occuring antibiodic called Tropolene. It says to keep roots healthy and to prevent fungal infections from the properties of the moss. And it also says that it acidifies the water a little bit.

Will this moss be suitible for carnivorous plants, and do they like having a little bit of acididy in the water? Will this type of Sphagnum moss grow back?

I have 2 Nepenthes, 1 Cepholatus, and Venus Fly traps.

Thank you

Answer
Hi Agustin,

If the zinc is naturally in there, then it shouldn't be a problem.  The levels are normally low enough to be OK to use with carnivorous plants.  We use sphagnum moss with our Nepenthes, and they grow well with it.  

If it is an additive, then it can pose a problem.  I'm not aware of companies adding zinc to the moss.  While orchid growers may appreciate it, keep in mind that carnivorous plants are completely different.  High minerals in the soil will kill the roots.

Dried moss may grow again ONLY if there are live spores.  Generally, the spores are killed off during the drying process, but in a few instances, I've seen sphagnum moss grow again.  But this is rare and shouldn't be relied on.

Sphagnum moss is not appropriate with Cephalotus or flytraps.  For appropriate soil mixes, watch our DVDs, Grow Carnivorous Plants.
http://www.cobraplant.com/DVD

You can also read our care sheets online:
http://www.cobraplant.com/caresheets

Good growing!
Jacob Farin