When it comes to choosing soil for indoor plants, its important to consider the specific needs of the plant. Most indoor plants need soil that is moisture-retentive and well-draining, giving the plant roots access to air and water. Here are some types of soil that are commonly recommended for indoor plants:
- Compost: Whether homemade or purchased, organic compost will provide structure and nutrition for your indoor plants.
- Sphagnum peat moss: A natural ingredient, peat moss provides structure, aeration, and water retention ability. It’s also slightly acidic.
- Coconut coir: This is a soilless medium that is made from the fibrous husks of coconuts. It is lightweight, has excellent water retention, and is a sustainable alternative to peat moss.
Its also important to note that some potting mixes include slow-release fertilizer to help plants grow and thrive. If youre unsure about which soil to use for your specific plant, you can generally go by the labels on the bags. When youre at a store and dont see your particular plant mentioned on a plant-specific mix, you can go with a regular potting soil mix.
In general, a good indoor potting mix should be made up of peat moss and other soilless mediums (coconut/wood fiber, vermiculite, perlite, etc.) . Most commercial potting soils and mixes do not contain much in the way of soil – or actual dirt – if any. Instead, they are a mix of natural materials like moss, bark, and earthworm castings (among other things) .
Its always best to get a soil with good drainage, amendments to support growth, and that is pH adjusted for indoor plants. When purchasing potting soil, what you need comes down to what you grow. Many recommended blends are all-purpose, serving a variety of plant types. If you have a sunroom full of cacti or succulents, get something tailored to them, as they have different moisture retention needs than those of typical flowers.
In summary, the best soil for indoor plants depends on the specific needs of the plant. However, a good indoor potting mix should be made up of peat moss and other soilless mediums, provide good drainage, and be pH adjusted for indoor plants.
