What brand of potting soil is best for philodendrons/pothos? - Ask Extension
Normally I don't have any problems growing my pothos/philodendrons but recently the soil has become almost impermeable. The water doesn't soak in very...
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What brand of potting soil is best for philodendrons/pothos? #436764
Asked December 20, 2017, 6:58 PM EST
Normally I don't have any problems growing my pothos/philodendrons but recently the soil has become almost impermeable. The water doesn't soak in very well and the roots have almost nothing to grab onto, it's almost like they're potted in sand. I know I need new soil, but everywhere I've looked online just says "high quality potting soil" and doesn't list a suggested brand. The soil I bought was supposedly "high quality, great water retention" potting soil but apparently that's not the case. With the climate being so dry, is there a specific brand that works well with Colorado house plants (philodendrons/pothos/hoyas in particular)?
El Paso County Colorado
Expert Response
Helllo
Soil for foliage houseplants should have the following characteristics;
While extension cannot advocate for particular vendors or brands. I recommend choosing one of the folllowing options.
Visit a local garden center and look for products which contain some peat moss and vermiculite or pearlite. Garden center staff will be knowledgeable and able to assist you in making a good choice.
Consider making your own mix. The simplest would be two parts sphagnum peat moss, one part pearlite, one part coarse sand, This is an easy way to ensure you know what you are getting. If may even save you a bit of money.
If you buy a mix it will likely contain fertilizer so you will have to adjust your fertilization schedule accordingly.
The article linked to below contains several other options.
I consulted a fact sheet from the Clemson U. Extension which you can find at http://www.clemson.edu/extension/hgic/plants/indoor/care/hgic1456.html.
I hope this is helpful.
Soil for foliage houseplants should have the following characteristics;
- Dense enough to support the plant.
- Good nutrient-holding capacity.
- Allows water and air to pass through readily, yet retains adequate moisture.
- Free of insects, diseases and weed seeds.
While extension cannot advocate for particular vendors or brands. I recommend choosing one of the folllowing options.
Visit a local garden center and look for products which contain some peat moss and vermiculite or pearlite. Garden center staff will be knowledgeable and able to assist you in making a good choice.
Consider making your own mix. The simplest would be two parts sphagnum peat moss, one part pearlite, one part coarse sand, This is an easy way to ensure you know what you are getting. If may even save you a bit of money.
If you buy a mix it will likely contain fertilizer so you will have to adjust your fertilization schedule accordingly.
The article linked to below contains several other options.
I consulted a fact sheet from the Clemson U. Extension which you can find at http://www.clemson.edu/extension/hgic/plants/indoor/care/hgic1456.html.
I hope this is helpful.
