Soils & Substrates

Potting soil is an industrially manufactured product. It serves for nutrient absorption and ensures the healthy growth of our plants. It is made from natural ingredients such as humus, coir, peat, sand, wood fibers, etc., and is precisely tailored to the plant. There are different soils for different plants, because not all have the same needs. Cacti want different soil than Alocasias or Philodendrons. And just as diverse as the plants are, so too are the substrate mixtures from individual manufacturers.

Organic and Inorganic Substrates

Organic substrates are of natural origin. They are broken down or arise as a "waste product" in industry. They consist of bark, humus, compost or wood. Inorganic or mineral substrates consist of rocks or minerals. There are unprocessed substrates such as lava or pumice and there are processed substrates such as perlite, vermiculite, expanded clay or zeolite. They are treated without changing their basic properties, so that we can use them as a substrate.

 

Organic Components:

Coir: Coir is obtained from the husk of coconuts. It is durable and a good alternative to peat. It can store water and at the same time ensures good aeration of the roots.

Bark Humus: Bark humus improves the soil and retains moisture. It is a waste product from wood processing.

Peat: Raised bog peat (white peat) and black peat are often components of potting soils. Due to its positive properties, it is frequently used in gardening. It stores water without depriving the roots of the necessary oxygen and at the same time has a low pH value. However, its extraction harms the environment, and therefore the use of peat should be avoided.

Compost: Compost is fully decomposed organic material. It provides valuable nutrients for our plants and improves soil structure.

Wood Fiber: Wood fiber can be used in various substrates to increase water absorption and retention and improve structure.

Mineral Components

Expanded Clay: Expanded clay consists of fired clay. Its production is energy-intensive. Expanded clay stores water and at the same time ensures optimal aeration of the roots. It is also often used as a drainage layer.

Pumice: It is a porous and volcanic rock. Provides good drainage and aeration.

Sand: Sand loosens the soil and ensures good aeration and loosening. However, it can also dry out the soil and block nutrient uptake.

Gravel: Like sand, it loosens the soil. Water can drain better and waterlogging is avoided. It contains no nutrients and should therefore only be mixed in.

Perlite: Perlite is a volcanic rock and soil amendment. It has a porous structure, stores water, and provides aeration. It is also ideally suited for growing young plants.

Zeolite: Zeolite is a natural rock that is suitable as an additive or sole substrate. It stores water and nutrients. Please note that zeolite can increase the pH value.