- This recipe is ideal for most plants. If you are unsure of your plant's soil preference, start with this basic mixture: Combine 2 parts of packaged soil with 1 part of medium-grain sand and 1 part of either leaf mold or peat moss. Mix all of the items but do not worry about thoroughly combining each ingredient with the next.
- Incorporate 2 parts of packaged soil with 1 part of course sand and 1 part of leaf mold or peat moss, then carefully add bone meal. This composition of pulverized, sterilized animal bones contains nutrients including phosphorus, nitrogen, calcium and potassium. The medium or fine grade of bone meal will work well for this mixture, and dosage instructions are included on the package. Plants with bulbs prefer the soft environment provided by this soil recipe. Packaged soils that contain a wetting agent are especially beneficial.
- Orchids require special attention, and this rule also applies to the soil in which they grow. Use 6 parts of osmunda fiber with 1 part of half-inch charcoal. If you are unable to locate osmunda fiber, mix other items such as bark, peat moss, volcanic stone and chopped tree fern fiber as an alternative. Before placing the soil into the pot, add a drainage material. You can use medium-sized rocks or other substances that allow the excess water to quickly drain.
- Homemade alpine planting soil can be made from 1 part pumice, 1 part peat moss and 2 parts of course sand. If you do not have course sand, you can substitute with perlite. This substance is a lightweight, sterile material made from volcanic rock. Like the sand, it enables the soil to bring in oxygen.
- Cacti and other succulent plants require a soil mixture that promotes a lot of aeration. Combine 2 parts of course sand, 2 parts of packaged soil and 1/2 part of peat moss. Once those elements have been brought together, carefully add bone meal and limestone based on the dosage recommendations on their packages.
