The foundation of healthy plants starts with the right soil. Learn to craft perfect mixes for your plants.
Potting Soil: Retains moisture and nutrients. Quality matters - buy from reputable brands. Contains peat, coco coir, and compost base.
Perlite/Orchid Bark: Increases aeration and prevents waterlogging. Essential for Monsteras and aroids that demand drainage.
Charcoal: Prevents soil souring. Coco coir: Sustainable peat alternative. Worm castings: Slow-release nutrients.
40% potting soil + 30% orchid bark + 20% perlite + 10% charcoal
Provides excellent drainage while retaining some moisture. Perfect for plants with aerial roots.
50% potting soil + 25% perlite + 20% coco coir + 5% peat
Retains more moisture for plants that prefer consistently moist (not wet) soil.
50% potting soil + 25% coarse sand + 25% perlite
Very fast-draining to prevent rot in drought-adapted plants.
60% potting soil + 20% perlite + 15% bark + 5% worm castings
Balanced option for a variety of plants when starting.
After 12-18 months, potting soil breaks down and loses structure. Repot into fresh mix annually for established plants or when roots fill the pot (see roots emerging from drainage holes).
Refresh top 2-3 inches of soil annually without full repotting. Mix in fresh compost or worm castings to restore nutrients.
Minerals accumulate with frequent fertilizing. Flush soil monthly by running water through until it drains from the bottom, or refresh the top layer of soil annually.