Things You'll Need:
- Time for plant research
- Different growing mediums
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Step 1
Know that the best growing medium for indoor houseplants is lightweight, but nutrient retentive, and moisture absorbent, yet provides aeration and good drainage.
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Step 2
Know the different types of non-soil substrates:
a. Peat moss or sphagnum moss
b. Shredded or ground pine or hardwood bark
c. Lime-free river sand
d. Heated and pulverized clay
e. Ground or powdered lava, basalt or limestone
f. Horticulture grade charcoal
g. Leaf mold or decayed leaves
h. Vermiculite (expanded mica)
i. Perlite (puffed volcanic rock)
j. Cork, coconut husk -
Step 3
Prepare this potting mix for acid-loving plants such as anthuriums, azaleas, ferns, gardenias and citrus trees: peat moss, perlite and decayed leaves.
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Step 4
Potting mix for tropical plants.Prepare this potting mix for alkaline-loving plants such as most tropical plants and palm trees: clay or loam, supplemented with limestone or powdered rock and lava.
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Step 5
Potting mix for orchids.Prepare this potting mix for plants that prefer slightly acidic conditions that drain well, such as orchids and bromeliads: bark, perlite, charcoal, cork and coconut husk.
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Step 6
Potting mix for cacti.Prepare this potting mix for plants that require substrates that are airy and permeable, such as cacti and succulents: river sand, peat moss, perlite and ground lava or basalt.
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Step 7
Research the growing requirements of your favorite houseplants, and always provide the best potting mix for the best results.
