Is there a way to downsize garden soil to make it fit for potting soil?
Question by mosi: Is there a way to downsize garden soil to make it fit for potting soil?
I bought a big bag of garden soil when I really needed potting soil….
I said downsize cus i thought garden soil was too strong to be used as potting soil…
What do you think? Answer below!
3 Responses to Is there a way to downsize garden soil to make it fit for potting soil?
Leave a Reply
What do you mean by “downsize”?
Laurie
December 17, 2011 at 4:47 pm
Add pearlite and/or vermiculite – either one or both will lighten it up and make it what you are looking for.
I don't believe it!
December 17, 2011 at 5:24 pm
Being too strong is not an issue, but it may be too heavy and not get enough air. Soils for containers need to be well aerated and well drained, while still being able to retain enough moisture for plant growth. If you use garden soil, be sure to mix in some other components to make it suitable for containers. Since your plants are confined, the roots can’t keep reaching deeper for more water or nutrients.
Perlite and vermiculite are lightweight volcanic rocks naturally filled with air. I prefer perlite over the others because it does not decompose with time nor lose its aerating ability if the potting mix is compressed. Vermiculite is a valuable additive because it prevents some nutrients from leaching away, and it even provides a bit of potassium and magnesium.
You’ll want to add one of the following to help the soil retain moisture: peat moss, sphagnum moss, or coir. They cling to some of the water that the aggregates are helping to drain. Organic materials also hold on to nutrients that might otherwise wash away.
In addition to peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite, commercial mixes often contain sawdust or various grades of shredded bark. Lime may be added to help balance the acidity of the peat moss, and a small dose of fertilizer can often make up for the lack of nutrients.
I’d also advise you add a bit of compost, which adds additional nutrients. You can find all of these ingredients at a gardening store, or even Lowes/Home Depot. If you’re purchasing bags, and not ammending your own soil, you’re best bet is likely to return the bag and purchasing a potting mix instead. It will be less work and your plants will thank you 🙂
StarBreiz
December 17, 2011 at 5:54 pm