Make Potting Mix For Your Container Garden

As one gardening season comes to an end, it's important to think about refreshing your potting soil before the next one.

Over time, potting soil can become depleted of nutrients and compacted, which can lead to poor plant growth and drainage issues. Throwing out spent potting soil after it is exhausted is an expensive and wasteful practice.

Far better to gather together a few simple ingredients and refresh old soil.  In this blog post, we'll discuss the benefits of refreshing potting soil and share some recipes for making your own potting soil at home. These tips can be employed even in the smallest of gardens.

Word of caution - always wear a dust mask to protect yourself against airborne pathogens and bacteria.

Benefits of Refreshing Potting Soil

Over time, potting soil can lose its effectiveness due to several factors:

1. 1. Nutrient Depletion: The essential nutrients that plants rely on—such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium—get used up as your plants grow. If left unchanged, the soil may become deficient, leading to stunted growth or poor plant health.

   2. Compaction: As soil settles and compacts, its aeration diminishes. Compacted soil can restrict root growth and water drainage, making it harder for your plants to thrive.

   3. Microbial Activity: Healthy soil is teeming with beneficial microorganisms that help break down organic matter and improve nutrient availability. Over time, these organisms can dwindle, impacting soil health.

   4. pH Imbalance: The pH of your soil can change as nutrients are consumed, affecting your plants’ ability to absorb them. The right pH is crucial for optimal plant health. 

If you don't have a supply of compost as many in small spaces such as apartments don't (do check out my Blog on Small Space Composting as it can be done!), you can purchase bagged compost but only select good quality brands which do not have too much wood chip in it. 
Mix all ingredients together in a large container until well combined. This potting soil is ideal for starting seeds, as it provides good drainage and aeration.

How to refresh potting soil renew your potting soil, follow these simple steps:

Throwing out spent soil each season is wasteful and expensive! Fortunately, refreshing your potting soil doesn’t have to be. Here are some simple, cost-effective ways to revitalise it:

• Top-Dressing: Add a layer of fresh potting mix or compost on top of the existing soil. This can provide a nutrient boost without the need for a complete replacement.

• Mixing: Combine old soil with new potting mix. This can help restore nutrients and improve aeration while reducing waste.

• Adding Organic Matter: Incorporate organic materials like compost, worm castings, or well-rotted manure to enhance soil fertility and structure.

• Regular Testing: Use pH test kits to monitor your soil's health. This can guide your amendments and ensure your plants are in the best environment to thrive.

By taking these simple steps, you can ensure that your plants have the best possible start this growing season. A little effort in refreshing your potting soil will ansure your plants are well nourished.

In the store we have the most comprehensive Make Potting Mix At Home Guide with 6 soil recipes,  developed by Anne Gibson, an expert on healthy soil and sustainable gardening.