Nepenthes, one of the genera I’ve cultivated for over eight years, can be divided into two groups: epiphytic and terrestrial species. Epiphytes naturally grow on moss cushions or decayed trees, where their roots develop strong anchoring capabilities to withstand environmental factors like wind. Despite this, they can also grow terrestrially since their seeds germinate wherever they land. Terrestrial Nepenthes, on the other hand, typically develop less robust root systems due to the dense, heavy soils they inhabit.

Contrary to popular belief, Dionaea do not prefer airy substrates. Instead, they thrive in dense and heavy soils. In my experience, Venus flytraps grow better in pure peat compared to a peat-perlite mixture. This preference aligns with their natural habitats, where they grow in compact sandy soils surrounded by grasses that further compress the ground.

When potting Dionaea, it’s important to bury the rhizome 1–2 cm below the substrate surface while ensuring it still receives adequate light. This setup promotes optimal growth. Additionally, long-term fertilizers, such as slow-release pellets, can significantly enhance their development when applied correctly.

Sarracenia have more classic substrate preferences, thriving in relatively airy mixes. A blend of peat and perlite (70:30) works well, though caution should be taken not to overdo the perlite content, as this may cause the substrate to dry out too quickly. An alternative to peat-based mixes is pure pine bark, which offers a sustainable and environmentally friendly option. While plants grown in pine bark may exhibit slightly slower growth, it remains a viable substrate choice.

Interestingly, Sarracenia purpurea ssp. purpurea var. riplicola is the only species within this genus that naturally grows in calcareous soils, and this can also be replicated in cultivation for this unique variety.

Unlike other carnivorous plants, Pinguicula can tolerate calcareous substrates. These plants typically develop shallow, delicate root systems, rendering deep, dense substrates unnecessary. In their natural habitats, they often grow on rocky scree or cliff faces near water runoffs.

For cultivation, nearly any substrate can work, but I recommend quartz sand or lava rock, as these closely mimic their natural environment and provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance. These materials also promote drainage, which is beneficial for Pinguicula’s shallow rooting habits.

Creating a bog garden or bog container can be straightforward if you avoid common mistakes. The first rule is to avoid using black peat, as it is overly decomposed and highly acidic, which can harm your plants. Black peat is easy to identify by its dark color and strong odor, unlike white peat, which is odorless and more suitable.

Before planting, it’s essential to pre-soak the peat, as dry peat can take months to fully absorb water. Additionally, perlite should be avoided in bog gardens because it tends to float in water and doesn't look well. Fertilizing bog plants is also possible; I typically mix a small amount of slow-release fertilizer, such as Osmocote, into the substrate to encourage robust growth.

Depending on the plants you wish to grow, a bog garden can also be established using quartz sand or pine bark as a base substrate, offering flexibility and customization to suit various genera.