The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many of us to change our lifestyles, from altered routines to new interests. One hobby, in particular, that seems to have proved popular with many Canadians? Gardening!
A study carried out last year found that over half of all Canadians were growing their own food at home. It’s easy to see why this has been a pandemic pastime of choice. Gardening is a therapeutic, productive and environmentally-friendly hobby.
But it does require a certain amount of knowledge. Today, we’ll be tackling soil for planters. How it differs from other types of soil, and what potted plants require to survive and thrive.
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1. There are Many Different Types of Soil
Not all soils are created equal. Who knew? But there are, in fact, hundreds of different soil types out there, and not all are suited to planters.
Each type of soil falls into one of six categories: clay, sand, peat, chalk, silt and loam. However, soils available to purchase for planters are normally an amalgamation of many different organic substances and will have been created with those specific conditions in mind.
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2. Potted Plants Need Specific Conditions
Most potted plants need soil that provides the right balance between being moist and well-drained. And most good soils that are available to purchase will do just that.
Soils such as our Container Complete SEA SOIL is made from a mix of organic materials that promote plant growth and are a great all-rounder suitable for most potted plants.
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3. Different Plants Need Different Soils
We’ve already established that potted plants require certain soil conditions. But it’s equally important to remember that different types of potted plants will require different things, as well.
For example, a cactus does best in more sandy soil, while orchids require root aeration, and seedlings might need special nutrients. Get to know the plants you want to grow, and you’ll be better placed to know how to choose soil for plants.
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4. Beware of Overwatering
One mistake that novice gardeners tend to make is to overwater their plants. Even though planter soil generally does a good job with drainage, you’ll still need to be careful not to fall into this trap.
A good rule of thumb for most plants is to test the soil with your finger and ensure it is moist: not wet, but not too dry either. When it feels like it’s drying out, you’ll know it’s safe to water. Plants such as cacti, rosemary, and sage prefer drier conditions and are all exceptions to this rule.
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5. You Can Always Make Your Own Additions
If you can’t find the exact soil you need, or you notice some of your plants aren’t thriving as they should be, it’s always possible to make your own additions to your planter soil.
Sand helps reduce water retention, while lime will raise the soil’s pH, and bark aids in both root aeration and drainage.
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We’ll Help You Find the Perfect Soil for Planters
Still not sure where to start with soil for planters? Our friendly and expertly trained staff members will be happy to help. Find a pop-up Urban Roots garden center near you today.
Are you looking to grow vegetables in a container this year? Click to sign up now for our FREE PDF guide, Container Vegetable Gardening for the Urban Gardener.
Happy gardening!
