Houseplants require different types of soils for several reasons, including their individual requirements for water retention, drainage, aeration, and nutrients.
Water retention is a key factor in plant growth, and different plants have different requirements for moisture levels. Some plants, like succulents and cacti, prefer a well-draining, sandy soil mix that allows water to quickly pass through the soil and evaporate from the surface. On the other hand, plants like ferns and spider plants prefer a soil mix that retains water more effectively.
- Drainage is an important factor in the growth of houseplants. Poor drainage can lead to waterlogged soil, which can damage roots and create conditions that are favorable for root rot and other diseases. Plants like orchids and bromeliads grow in soils that are specifically designed to allow for very free drainage where soil for ferns has less drainage to store moisture. This effect is achieved through the use of stone, sand, and perlite in the soil in varying quantities to prevent soil from nearly solidifying into a sponge thus, allowing water to move more freely throughout.
- Another factor is aeration. The roots of plants need oxygen to survive, and soil that is too dense or compact can limit the amount of oxygen that reaches the roots. A loose, well-aerated soil mix can promote healthy root growth and prevent root rot. Plants such as African violets or other plants with shallow root systems require well-draining soil that can retain enough moisture for healthy growth. Chunkier substrate like pumice stone, lava rock, and orchid bark are used to create pockets within the soil that can almost be compared to the alveoli of our lungs, allowing the plants’ roots to breathe.
- Different plants have different nutrient requirements. Some plants require more acidic soil, while others prefer a more alkaline mix. Certain plants may need specific nutrients to thrive, and they can be added to the soil mix to ensure optimal growth. This can be achieved through additives to the soil like lime grit to raise the acidity of the soil. In terms of adding more nutrients to the soil, I like to add bonemeal, worm castings, and a blend I prefer to call FBB, which stands for fish, bone and blood.
this short article only scratches the surface on way houseplants require different types of soils to provide the appropriate growing conditions for their specific needs but we need not go into the deep nitty gritty. These discussed: water retention, drainage, aeration, and nutrient requirements, all play a role in the type of soil a plant requires. By understanding these factors, you can choose the right soil mix to promote healthy growth and keep your houseplants thriving.
To learn more about what soil best suits your plant, check out our soil guides here on the website or message us directly from more information.