Is there any chance carnivorous plants could survive in an outdoor bog without using soft water?
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
