The range of special soils in the garden trade is wide and almost inscrutable. Is potting soil just overpriced soil that is completely useless or do you really need it when growing plants?
What is potting soil useful for?
Growing soil is particularly important as a special soil forseedlings, seedlings and young plants. In this soil, plants can grow best in their first weeks of life and develop a good root system. The results of cultivation are therefore generally more profitable.
Can potting soil be a substitute for potting soil?
Potting soil isnot a suitable replacement for potting soil. The reason is that potting soil contains an abundance of nutrients and these in high doses due to additional fertilizers added. It may be perfect for early flowers. But not for growing plants.
Furthermore, unlike commercial potting soil, potting soil is not sterile. However, when growing plants, it is advisable to use sterile soil in order to minimize the risk of illness caused by fungal pathogens, bacteria, viruses, etc.
What advantages does potting soil have?
Growing soil is advantageous because it islow in nutrientsand has aloose texture. It therefore forms the optimal basis for young plants. But after a few weeks there, the young plants should relocate. The soil chosen after the potting soil depends on the particular plant and its needs.
Is it absolutely necessary to buy commercially available potting soil?
It isnot necessary to buy a bag of potting soil (€6.00 on Amazon). You can also use homemade potting soil. The alternatives that exist are usually cheaper and just as good.
Can you grow plants without potting soil?
Plants need soil to grow, butnot necessarily potting soil They also grow in a nutrient-rich substrate. However, the results are generally worse. The reason is that plants invest hardly any energy in developing their roots due to an oversupply of nutrients. Their initially fine and sensitive roots can even be damaged by too high a nutrient density. The plants tend to shoot up and usually cannot grow strong and he althy.
Tip
Prefer to make your own growing soil?
If you decide to make your own potting soil, for example from bark humus, compost and sand, you should keep in mind that it is not germ-free. It is therefore best to sterilize them before use.
