Potting Soil Guide
Potting Soil Guide
The key to growing plants successfully is to research how they grow in their natural environment and then try to replicate those growing conditions as far as possible in cultivation.
So which potting soil is best?
There are many different materials which can be combined in many different ratios to create the ultimate potting soil. There are also almost as many different recipes for potting mixes as there are plant enthusiasts.
Our advice is to experiment with different materials and ratios until you find a mix which works best for you. A very important factor to consider is that we each grow our plants in a unique environment, each having its own set of variables and it is important to note that what works well for one grower will not necessarily also work well for you. The best potting mix you can use is one that you have tailor-made to match the plants you are growing as well as your own growing conditions.
Potting soil for succulents:
Most succulents grow and thrive in sandy, gravelly soils which drain rapidly after rainfall. Succulents need to be grown in a free draining soil.
Recommended recipe for making your own succulent potting mix:
50 % Potting soil – ensure it is of good quality
25 % Fine gravel
25 % Perlite
Mix all the above together well and use to pot your succulents.
Potting soil for Bromeliads:
Terrestrial growing Bromeliads with large root systems can be grown in good quality potting soil available at garden centres.
Epiphytic tank-type Bromeliads have less developed root systems and require a very free draining potting mixture. They also need a lot of air around their roots in order to thrive.
Recommended recipe for making your own bromeliad potting mix:
50 % Bark based potting soil
30 % Coco peat
20 % Perlite
We recommend the addition of perlite as it is light and porous and when added to potting soil it prevents it from compacting, thus allowing water to drain freely and easily.
Mix all the above together well and use to pot your bromeliads.
Whilst specially formulating your own potting mix you might want to consider the addition of some fertiliser to it. The most popular choices are 8 – 12 month controlled slow release fertiliser or organic fertiliser pellets derived from composted chicken manure. Remember to add this very sparingly and also to ensure it is well incorporated into your potting mix.
