What is one of the most important parts of gardening? Of course, the soil. Plants are different by nature just like we humans. Hence, the need for various soil mixes depending on the need of a plant. Some plants require more water and some minimum and based on that the soil mixes need to change.
Potting soil, also called potting mix, is a mixer of various ingredients that helps in healthy growth of potted plants. These soil mixes are made such that the roots do not suffocate and the flow of nutrients and water is not stopped. A potting soil of high quality, will be fluffy and lighter in weight, and also will hold moisture. There are many ingredients that can be included in potting mix;
• Organic plant or animal-based material make the primary ingredients, including rice hulls, composted bark, manure, earthworm castings or sphagnum peat moss. Coconut coir is being used as a substitute for peat moss increasingly.
• Inorganic natural materials include vermiculite, pumice, sand, cinders or perlite.
• Fertilisers which help provide nutrients to the plants. It is best to avoid chemical fertilisers.
The different types of potting mixes are:
• Indoor potting mix: They are mainly used to houseplants, avoid the ones that contain compost or bark, which tends shelter pests, fungus gnats.
• Raised beds: Basically, used for outdoor raised bed plantings, like growing vegetables and other heavy feeders.
• Seed starting mix: This blend is soilless, lighter and quick-draining, which is needed for healthy root development. It also promotes higher germination.
• Cactus and succulent mix: As these plants require less water, leaner soils that dry quickly should be used. They mostly comprise of sand, perlite and inorganic materials.
If you are confused why even after using high quality soil, your plants aren’t healthy, read more about plants and understand their needs. Only when you know what they need will you be able to give them the right nourishment.