What Kinds of Plants Grow Best in Potting Soil?

Potting soils are available for just about every kind of plant.

Stumped about which plants to grow in your potting soil? The wide variety of potting soil mixes available today means that you can grow almost anything---provided that you use the right potting soil for the right plant.

General-Purpose Potting Soil

General-purpose potting soil is usually a mix of peat moss, composted bark, and a lightweight mineral additive such as vermiculite or perlite. You can buy general-purpose potting soil with or without added fertilizer or compost.

Good Plants for General-Purpose Potting Soil

Just about any plant that doesn't need a special soil can be grown in general-purpose potting soil. Good choices for general-purpose potting soil include vegetables such as tomatoes, beans, peas, and peppers; good flower choices include marigolds, pansies, geraniums, and begonias.

Special Potting Soil Mixes

Potting soil mixes are available for many different plants with specific soil needs. You can buy potting soils made especially for African violets, cacti, roses, orchids, and spring bulbs.

Potting Soil for Starting Seeds

If you're starting your own plants from seed, look for a potting soil mix labeled "germinating mix" or "seed starting mix." These mixes are made of softer, finer particles than general-purpose potting soil and won't weigh down your tiny new shoots.

Potting Soil for Large Containers

If you're planting large containers with small trees or large shrubs, look for a potting soil mix with composted mulch and sand, sometimes called "nursery mix." The sand will help weigh down the container, and the mulch will provide better drainage and aeration for the roots.

References

• Container Gardening for Dummies; Bill Marken; 1998