Well Draining Potting Soil Mix

It provides the right structure for root growth and anchoring.

Well draining potting soil mix.

The essential element in well drained soil is oxygen which is just as important as water in growing healthy plants. And it provides aeration so the roots can breathe. Orchid potting mix improves drainage and helps air reach roots. Limestone is added to peat based potting mixes to help balance the ph.

Sphagnum peat is lightweight and inexpensive. While aeration is important the best potting soil must balance aeration with water retention. Sphagnum peat moss is well draining and well aerated but it s very low in available nutrients and it has an acidic ph typically ranging between 3 5 and 4 5. Granted until you get the peat thoroughly moistened the particles can be very unpleasant to work with.

Bagged potting mixes are pre packed with the nutrients your plants need so there s no need to add soil compost or anything else. A variety of bagged mixes are available commercially but you can easily make your own mix at home. Homemade mixes are often better. Yes potting soil.

Soil that is water logged does not drain well and is anaerobic oxygen deficient resulting in drowned and rotted roots. Orchid potting mix usually doesn t have fertilizer or moisture control pellets. Most houseplants do best in potting soil that allows water to drain easily. Holds enough water for healthy plants while still having good drainage.

Mita bishnoi garden tips 11 798 views 10 17. A well designed potting soil is ideal for growing indoor plants. Our top choice is fox farm happy frog organic potting soil mix. This blend of coarse materials is designed for many kinds of orchids.

Peat is also on the acidic side and most seed starting mixes have a soil ph around 5 8 which is fine for starting most seeds. Just as importantly it s well draining yet water retentive. Stagnant sticky soil clings to plants and can rot the roots or allow harmful fungal growth. The good news is all potting mixes are well draining so all you need to do is choose a potting mix that s appropriate for the type of plant you re potting up.

Organic potting mixes are chemical free and made from natural organic materials. Soil drainage is a very important factor to consider when planting salvia agastache lavender penstemon and other perennials that like well drained soil. Perfect potting soil mix qualities how to make your own nutrient rich general purpose potting soil duration.