Algae growing on substrate.

MatthewN

Sprout
Substrate question for all the experts who have more experience then myself. :)

Since starting my journey in to the world of carnivorous plants I have been using the DOOA jungle soil/tropical river soil and Fluval stratum products for my substrate and it has been going very well for all the plants I have tried so far.

Recently as a cost saving measure I have attempted to mix my own substrate with a 50:50 peat and perlite mix as a generic base. But for some reason I'm getting hit with loads of algae this way and honestly the plant growth is so much slower.

Is there a trick to reduce algae growth?

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There might be a trick for algae but I don't know it. It does seem that I have much less than I had years ago. Maybe a changing microbiota in my set up. No idea.
 
There might be a trick for algae but I don't know it. It does seem that I have much less than I had years ago. Maybe a changing microbiota in my set up. No idea.

What is really strange is when I add sand to the mix for the pinguicula there is no algae.
 
Some people microwave thier ingredients before planting to help thwart unwanted surprises.

Algae only grows in very very moist environments.

Possibly this could explain why you don’t see the same with your sand mix as sand doesn’t hold moisture like perlite so maybe the soil surface isn’t as saturated?

Do you grow in an enclosure with very high humidity? Could try lowering the humidity or tray water level to compensate for more water wicking soil. Sand is also perfectly fine for drosera you also could adjust your soil mix to hold less water.
 
Some people microwave thier ingredients before planting to help thwart unwanted surprises.

Algae only grows in very very moist environments.

Possibly this could explain why you don’t see the same with your sand mix as sand doesn’t hold moisture like perlite so maybe the soil surface isn’t as saturated?

Do you grow in an enclosure with very high humidity? Could try lowering the humidity or tray water level to compensate for more water wicking soil. Sand is also perfectly fine for drosera you also could adjust your soil mix to hold less water.

That is a really good idea, a little time in the microwave might help with that for sure.

I don't feel that it is very high humidity but I think your right it is the wicking action of the peat. I noticed it always looks 'wetter' then the other substrate medias.

My pinguicula mix is 1:1:1 peat : perlite : sand should be fine for drosera?
 
Absolutely! Also play around with ratios till you find something that wicks the right amount of water for your setup.

Here’s a basic guide of materials that can be used for different carnivorous plants.
 
in fact algae are not a problem for many plants.
before using peat put it in the oven for a few minutes
for ping most are calcicolous so use only a mineral based substrate
 
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