The right mix of potting soil is necessary for growing flowers.
The ingredients in potting soil vary depending upon how the soil is to be used. For example, certain plants require a specific soil acidity to thrive. Many ingredients in many ratios may be found in a bagged potting soil; if you can't find a blend that works for your needs, consider creating your own. Does this Spark an idea?
Peat Moss
Peat moss, not dirt, is a main ingredient in many commercially sold potting soils. Peat moss provides moisture retention for your plants, as well as essential nutrients your plants need. Additionally, peat moss increases the acidity of your soil, making it the ideal ingredient for azaleas and hydrangeas, plants that require high acidity. High concentrations of peat moss might make soil too acidic for some plants.
Perlite and Vermiculite
Those small white rocks you see in your bagged mix of potting soil are actually perlite, a volcanic rock. Perlite is added to potting soil because it allows water to drain from the soil, thus providing your plants with more oxygen. Like perlite, vermiculite is volcanic rock that is placed in potting soils to allow the soil to drain. Vermiculite also retains moisture and vital nutrients.
Pine Bark
Pine bark is another ingredient commonly found in potting soil. Like perlite, pine bark allows the soil to drain, leaving more air in the soil. As pine bark breaks down, it adds nutrients to the soil and makes it more fertile.
Compost
Compost is decayed plant matter. It provides your plants with a rich source of nutrients. If your bagged potting soil does not contain compost, you can purchase it at a gardening store. You can also make compost at home using lawn clippings, shredded leaves, fertilizer and water.
Sand
Sand is a common ingredient in potting soil mixes because it provides proper drainage for plants. If your soil requires material to aid in drainage, you can purchase sand from home improvement stores; note that bags of sand are often only available in large quantities but are inexpensive.
Fertilizer
Many potting soils include fertilizers to help your plants thrive. The type of fertilizer added will depend upon the type of soil you choose, but all fertilizers contain a mixture of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Fertilizer may also be purchased separately and added to your mix.
Tags: potting soil, your plants, bagged potting, bagged potting soil, potting soil, potting soils, Like perlite