Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% chunky bark, 25% coco coir or peat-free houseplant base, 20% perlite or pumice, 10% worm castings, 5% horticultural charcoal.
Why this mix works
This mix keeps roots oxygenated while still holding enough moisture for steady tropical growth.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap bark for coco chips; swap perlite for pumice; swap worm castings for a light organic feed programme.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase bark and pumice for larger mature plants or if conditions run cool.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase drainage in lower light and cooler months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer version of the same mix for small plants with less coarse bark.
Quick soil summary
Chunky, airy aroid mix
Watering context
Water when the top layer starts to dry
Humidity context
Moderate to high humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% chunky bark, 25% coco coir or peat-free houseplant base, 20% perlite or pumice, 10% worm castings, 5% horticultural charcoal.
Why this mix works
This mix keeps roots oxygenated while still holding enough moisture for steady tropical growth.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap bark for coco chips; swap perlite for pumice; swap worm castings for a light organic feed programme.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase bark and pumice for larger mature plants or if conditions run cool.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase drainage in lower light and cooler months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer version of the same mix for small plants with less coarse bark.
Quick soil summary
Chunky, airy aroid mix
Watering context
Water when the top layer starts to dry
Humidity context
Moderate to high humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% chunky bark, 25% coco coir or peat-free houseplant base, 20% perlite or pumice, 10% worm castings, 5% horticultural charcoal.
Why this mix works
This mix keeps roots oxygenated while still holding enough moisture for steady tropical growth.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap bark for coco chips; swap perlite for pumice; swap worm castings for a light organic feed programme.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase bark and pumice for larger mature plants or if conditions run cool.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase drainage in lower light and cooler months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer version of the same mix for small plants with less coarse bark.
Quick soil summary
Chunky, airy aroid mix
Watering context
Water when the top layer starts to dry
Humidity context
Moderate to high humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% chunky bark, 25% coco coir or peat-free houseplant base, 20% perlite or pumice, 10% worm castings, 5% horticultural charcoal.
Why this mix works
This mix keeps roots oxygenated while still holding enough moisture for steady tropical growth.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap bark for coco chips; swap perlite for pumice; swap worm castings for a light organic feed programme.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase bark and pumice for larger mature plants or if conditions run cool.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase drainage in lower light and cooler months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer version of the same mix for small plants with less coarse bark.
Quick soil summary
Chunky, airy aroid mix
Watering context
Water when the top layer starts to dry
Humidity context
Moderate to high humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% chunky bark, 25% coco coir or peat-free houseplant base, 20% perlite or pumice, 10% worm castings, 5% horticultural charcoal.
Why this mix works
This mix keeps roots oxygenated while still holding enough moisture for steady tropical growth.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap bark for coco chips; swap perlite for pumice; swap worm castings for a light organic feed programme.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase bark and pumice for larger mature plants or if conditions run cool.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase drainage in lower light and cooler months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer version of the same mix for small plants with less coarse bark.
Quick soil summary
Chunky, airy aroid mix
Watering context
Water when the top layer starts to dry
Humidity context
Moderate to high humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
35% cactus base mix, 35% pumice or grit, 20% perlite, 10% fine bark or coarse sand as suitable.
Why this mix works
Dry-adapted plants need rapid drainage and a root zone that does not stay wet for long.
Ingredient alternatives
Use lava rock, grit, or moler clay depending on the plant and availability.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase mineral content further for plants kept in low light or cool rooms.
Winter mix adjustments
Keep the mix especially free-draining during winter rest periods.
Young plant mix notes
Small plants can use a slightly finer but still strongly mineral mix.
Quick soil summary
Fast-draining succulent mix
Watering context
Water thoroughly, then let the mix dry well
Humidity context
Average home humidity is fine
Light context
Bright light with some direct sun for many varieties
Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% chunky bark, 25% coco coir or peat-free houseplant base, 20% perlite or pumice, 10% worm castings, 5% horticultural charcoal.
Why this mix works
This mix keeps roots oxygenated while still holding enough moisture for steady tropical growth.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap bark for coco chips; swap perlite for pumice; swap worm castings for a light organic feed programme.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase bark and pumice for larger mature plants or if conditions run cool.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase drainage in lower light and cooler months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer version of the same mix for small plants with less coarse bark.
Quick soil summary
Chunky, airy aroid mix
Watering context
Water when the top layer starts to dry
Humidity context
Moderate to high humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% chunky bark, 25% coco coir or peat-free houseplant base, 20% perlite or pumice, 10% worm castings, 5% horticultural charcoal.
Why this mix works
This mix keeps roots oxygenated while still holding enough moisture for steady tropical growth.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap bark for coco chips; swap perlite for pumice; swap worm castings for a light organic feed programme.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase bark and pumice for larger mature plants or if conditions run cool.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase drainage in lower light and cooler months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer version of the same mix for small plants with less coarse bark.
Quick soil summary
Chunky, airy aroid mix
Watering context
Water when the top layer starts to dry
Humidity context
Moderate to high humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% chunky bark, 25% coco coir or peat-free houseplant base, 20% perlite or pumice, 10% worm castings, 5% horticultural charcoal.
Why this mix works
This mix keeps roots oxygenated while still holding enough moisture for steady tropical growth.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap bark for coco chips; swap perlite for pumice; swap worm castings for a light organic feed programme.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase bark and pumice for larger mature plants or if conditions run cool.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase drainage in lower light and cooler months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer version of the same mix for small plants with less coarse bark.
Quick soil summary
Chunky, airy aroid mix
Watering context
Water when the top layer starts to dry
Humidity context
Moderate to high humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% chunky bark, 25% coco coir or peat-free houseplant base, 20% perlite or pumice, 10% worm castings, 5% horticultural charcoal.
Why this mix works
This mix keeps roots oxygenated while still holding enough moisture for steady tropical growth.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap bark for coco chips; swap perlite for pumice; swap worm castings for a light organic feed programme.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase bark and pumice for larger mature plants or if conditions run cool.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase drainage in lower light and cooler months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer version of the same mix for small plants with less coarse bark.
Quick soil summary
Chunky, airy aroid mix
Watering context
Water when the top layer starts to dry
Humidity context
Moderate to high humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% chunky bark, 25% coco coir or peat-free houseplant base, 20% perlite or pumice, 10% worm castings, 5% horticultural charcoal.
Why this mix works
This mix keeps roots oxygenated while still holding enough moisture for steady tropical growth.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap bark for coco chips; swap perlite for pumice; swap worm castings for a light organic feed programme.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase bark and pumice for larger mature plants or if conditions run cool.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase drainage in lower light and cooler months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer version of the same mix for small plants with less coarse bark.
Quick soil summary
Chunky, airy aroid mix
Watering context
Water when the top layer starts to dry
Humidity context
Moderate to high humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
35% cactus base mix, 35% pumice or grit, 20% perlite, 10% fine bark or coarse sand as suitable.
Why this mix works
Dry-adapted plants need rapid drainage and a root zone that does not stay wet for long.
Ingredient alternatives
Use lava rock, grit, or moler clay depending on the plant and availability.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase mineral content further for plants kept in low light or cool rooms.
Winter mix adjustments
Keep the mix especially free-draining during winter rest periods.
Young plant mix notes
Small plants can use a slightly finer but still strongly mineral mix.
Quick soil summary
Open, well-draining houseplant mix
Watering context
Water when the upper part of the mix has dried
Humidity context
Average home humidity is usually acceptable
Light context
Bright indirect light to bright filtered light
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% fine peat-free houseplant mix, 25% coco coir, 20% perlite, 10% fine bark, 5% worm castings.
Why this mix works
Begonias like an airy but evenly moist root zone with enough fine structure to support delicate roots.
Ingredient alternatives
Use fine orchid bark in place of bark; use pumice instead of perlite.
Repotting mix adjustments
Refresh with a clean airy mix rather than overpotting.
Winter mix adjustments
Reduce water-retentive inputs slightly if drying becomes slow.
Young plant mix notes
Keep the mix finer and more even for rooted cuttings and juvenile plants.
Quick soil summary
Fine, airy moisture-retentive mix
Watering context
Keep lightly and evenly moist, not soggy
Humidity context
Higher humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% fine peat-free houseplant mix, 25% coco coir, 20% perlite, 10% fine bark, 5% worm castings.
Why this mix works
Begonias like an airy but evenly moist root zone with enough fine structure to support delicate roots.
Ingredient alternatives
Use fine orchid bark in place of bark; use pumice instead of perlite.
Repotting mix adjustments
Refresh with a clean airy mix rather than overpotting.
Winter mix adjustments
Reduce water-retentive inputs slightly if drying becomes slow.
Young plant mix notes
Keep the mix finer and more even for rooted cuttings and juvenile plants.
Quick soil summary
Fine, airy moisture-retentive mix
Watering context
Keep lightly and evenly moist, not soggy
Humidity context
Higher humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% fine peat-free houseplant mix, 25% coco coir, 20% perlite, 10% fine bark, 5% worm castings.
Why this mix works
Begonias like an airy but evenly moist root zone with enough fine structure to support delicate roots.
Ingredient alternatives
Use fine orchid bark in place of bark; use pumice instead of perlite.
Repotting mix adjustments
Refresh with a clean airy mix rather than overpotting.
Winter mix adjustments
Reduce water-retentive inputs slightly if drying becomes slow.
Young plant mix notes
Keep the mix finer and more even for rooted cuttings and juvenile plants.
Quick soil summary
Fine, airy moisture-retentive mix
Watering context
Keep lightly and evenly moist, not soggy
Humidity context
Higher humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% fine peat-free houseplant mix, 25% coco coir, 20% perlite, 10% fine bark, 5% worm castings.
Why this mix works
Begonias like an airy but evenly moist root zone with enough fine structure to support delicate roots.
Ingredient alternatives
Use fine orchid bark in place of bark; use pumice instead of perlite.
Repotting mix adjustments
Refresh with a clean airy mix rather than overpotting.
Winter mix adjustments
Reduce water-retentive inputs slightly if drying becomes slow.
Young plant mix notes
Keep the mix finer and more even for rooted cuttings and juvenile plants.
Quick soil summary
Fine, airy moisture-retentive mix
Watering context
Keep lightly and evenly moist, not soggy
Humidity context
Higher humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% fine peat-free houseplant mix, 25% coco coir, 20% perlite, 10% fine bark, 5% worm castings.
Why this mix works
Begonias like an airy but evenly moist root zone with enough fine structure to support delicate roots.
Ingredient alternatives
Use fine orchid bark in place of bark; use pumice instead of perlite.
Repotting mix adjustments
Refresh with a clean airy mix rather than overpotting.
Winter mix adjustments
Reduce water-retentive inputs slightly if drying becomes slow.
Young plant mix notes
Keep the mix finer and more even for rooted cuttings and juvenile plants.
Quick soil summary
Fine, airy moisture-retentive mix
Watering context
Keep lightly and evenly moist, not soggy
Humidity context
Higher humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
45% peat-free houseplant base, 25% coco coir, 20% perlite, 10% fine bark.
Why this mix works
Prayer plants prefer even moisture with enough aeration to stop the root zone becoming stagnant.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap some coir for leaf mould or fine composted bark where available.
Repotting mix adjustments
Keep the blend light and avoid oversized pots.
Winter mix adjustments
Increase perlite slightly if the plant is drying very slowly.
Young plant mix notes
A finer, evenly moist blend suits juvenile roots best.
Quick soil summary
Light moisture-retentive airy mix
Watering context
Keep evenly moist but not waterlogged
Humidity context
Moderate to high humidity preferred
Light context
Medium to bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
45% peat-free houseplant base, 25% coco coir, 20% perlite, 10% fine bark.
Why this mix works
Prayer plants prefer even moisture with enough aeration to stop the root zone becoming stagnant.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap some coir for leaf mould or fine composted bark where available.
Repotting mix adjustments
Keep the blend light and avoid oversized pots.
Winter mix adjustments
Increase perlite slightly if the plant is drying very slowly.
Young plant mix notes
A finer, evenly moist blend suits juvenile roots best.
Quick soil summary
Light moisture-retentive airy mix
Watering context
Keep evenly moist but not waterlogged
Humidity context
Moderate to high humidity preferred
Light context
Medium to bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
45% peat-free houseplant base, 25% perlite, 15% bark, 15% coco coir.
Why this mix works
Trailing plants usually perform best in a light mix that drains well but does not dry instantly.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap bark for coco chips if preferred.
Repotting mix adjustments
Avoid overpotting and keep the mix light.
Winter mix adjustments
Increase drainage slightly if drying becomes slow indoors.
Young plant mix notes
Use a more even, fine mix for small propagations.
Quick soil summary
Light airy free-draining mix
Watering context
Water when the mix is partly dry
Humidity context
Average to moderate humidity
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
45% peat-free houseplant base, 25% perlite, 15% bark, 15% coco coir.
Why this mix works
Trailing plants usually perform best in a light mix that drains well but does not dry instantly.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap bark for coco chips if preferred.
Repotting mix adjustments
Avoid overpotting and keep the mix light.
Winter mix adjustments
Increase drainage slightly if drying becomes slow indoors.
Young plant mix notes
Use a more even, fine mix for small propagations.
Quick soil summary
Light airy free-draining mix
Watering context
Water when the mix is partly dry
Humidity context
Average to moderate humidity
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
45% peat-free houseplant base, 25% perlite, 15% bark, 15% coco coir.
Why this mix works
Trailing plants usually perform best in a light mix that drains well but does not dry instantly.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap bark for coco chips if preferred.
Repotting mix adjustments
Avoid overpotting and keep the mix light.
Winter mix adjustments
Increase drainage slightly if drying becomes slow indoors.
Young plant mix notes
Use a more even, fine mix for small propagations.
Quick soil summary
Light airy free-draining mix
Watering context
Water when the mix is partly dry
Humidity context
Average to moderate humidity
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
35% cactus base mix, 35% pumice or grit, 20% perlite, 10% fine bark or coarse sand as suitable.
Why this mix works
Dry-adapted plants need rapid drainage and a root zone that does not stay wet for long.
Ingredient alternatives
Use lava rock, grit, or moler clay depending on the plant and availability.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase mineral content further for plants kept in low light or cool rooms.
Winter mix adjustments
Keep the mix especially free-draining during winter rest periods.
Young plant mix notes
Small plants can use a slightly finer but still strongly mineral mix.
Quick soil summary
Fast-draining succulent mix
Watering context
Water thoroughly, then let the mix dry well
Humidity context
Average home humidity is fine
Light context
Bright light with some direct sun for many varieties
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
45% peat-free houseplant base, 25% coco coir, 20% perlite, 10% fine bark.
Why this mix works
Prayer plants prefer even moisture with enough aeration to stop the root zone becoming stagnant.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap some coir for leaf mould or fine composted bark where available.
Repotting mix adjustments
Keep the blend light and avoid oversized pots.
Winter mix adjustments
Increase perlite slightly if the plant is drying very slowly.
Young plant mix notes
A finer, evenly moist blend suits juvenile roots best.
Quick soil summary
Light moisture-retentive airy mix
Watering context
Keep evenly moist but not waterlogged
Humidity context
Moderate to high humidity preferred
Light context
Medium to bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
35% cactus base mix, 35% pumice or grit, 20% perlite, 10% fine bark or coarse sand as suitable.
Why this mix works
Dry-adapted plants need rapid drainage and a root zone that does not stay wet for long.
Ingredient alternatives
Use lava rock, grit, or moler clay depending on the plant and availability.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase mineral content further for plants kept in low light or cool rooms.
Winter mix adjustments
Keep the mix especially free-draining during winter rest periods.
Young plant mix notes
Small plants can use a slightly finer but still strongly mineral mix.
Quick soil summary
Open, well-draining houseplant mix
Watering context
Water when the upper part of the mix has dried
Humidity context
Average home humidity is usually acceptable
Light context
Bright indirect light to bright filtered light
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
35% cactus base mix, 35% pumice or grit, 20% perlite, 10% fine bark or coarse sand as suitable.
Why this mix works
Dry-adapted plants need rapid drainage and a root zone that does not stay wet for long.
Ingredient alternatives
Use lava rock, grit, or moler clay depending on the plant and availability.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase mineral content further for plants kept in low light or cool rooms.
Winter mix adjustments
Keep the mix especially free-draining during winter rest periods.
Young plant mix notes
Small plants can use a slightly finer but still strongly mineral mix.
Quick soil summary
Open, well-draining houseplant mix
Watering context
Water when the upper part of the mix has dried
Humidity context
Average home humidity is usually acceptable
Light context
Bright indirect light to bright filtered light
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
35% cactus base mix, 35% pumice or grit, 20% perlite, 10% fine bark or coarse sand as suitable.
Why this mix works
Dry-adapted plants need rapid drainage and a root zone that does not stay wet for long.
Ingredient alternatives
Use lava rock, grit, or moler clay depending on the plant and availability.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase mineral content further for plants kept in low light or cool rooms.
Winter mix adjustments
Keep the mix especially free-draining during winter rest periods.
Young plant mix notes
Small plants can use a slightly finer but still strongly mineral mix.
Quick soil summary
Open, well-draining houseplant mix
Watering context
Water when the upper part of the mix has dried
Humidity context
Average home humidity is usually acceptable
Light context
Bright indirect light to bright filtered light
Compaction sensitivity
3/5
Recommended soil recipe
50% sphagnum peat or suitable carnivorous plant medium, 50% perlite or silica sand depending on genus.
Why this mix works
Carnivorous plants generally need nutrient-poor, moisture-retentive media rather than rich houseplant compost.
Ingredient alternatives
Use long-fibre sphagnum for some species where appropriate.
Repotting mix adjustments
Use genus-specific media adjustments rather than a standard indoor plant mix.
Winter mix adjustments
Keep the medium appropriate to dormancy needs rather than changing to richer compost.
Young plant mix notes
Keep media clean, low nutrient, and consistently suitable for the species.
Quick soil summary
Specialist carnivorous plant media
Watering context
Use suitable low-mineral water only
Humidity context
Species dependent, often moderate to high
Light context
Very bright light, species dependent
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
35% cactus base mix, 35% pumice or grit, 20% perlite, 10% fine bark or coarse sand as suitable.
Why this mix works
Dry-adapted plants need rapid drainage and a root zone that does not stay wet for long.
Ingredient alternatives
Use lava rock, grit, or moler clay depending on the plant and availability.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase mineral content further for plants kept in low light or cool rooms.
Winter mix adjustments
Keep the mix especially free-draining during winter rest periods.
Young plant mix notes
Small plants can use a slightly finer but still strongly mineral mix.
Quick soil summary
Fast-draining succulent mix
Watering context
Water thoroughly, then let the mix dry well
Humidity context
Average home humidity is fine
Light context
Bright light with some direct sun for many varieties
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
50% peat-free houseplant base, 25% bark, 15% perlite, 10% coco coir.
Why this mix works
Ficus prefer a balanced mix with reliable drainage and moderate moisture retention.
Ingredient alternatives
Use pumice instead of perlite or coco chips for extra structure.
Repotting mix adjustments
Use a chunkier blend for larger woody plants.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase aeration in darker months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a finer but still open mix for smaller plants.
Quick soil summary
Open, well-draining houseplant mix
Watering context
Water when the upper part of the mix has dried
Humidity context
Average home humidity is usually acceptable
Light context
Bright indirect light to bright filtered light
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
50% peat-free houseplant base, 25% bark, 15% perlite, 10% coco coir.
Why this mix works
Ficus prefer a balanced mix with reliable drainage and moderate moisture retention.
Ingredient alternatives
Use pumice instead of perlite or coco chips for extra structure.
Repotting mix adjustments
Use a chunkier blend for larger woody plants.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase aeration in darker months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a finer but still open mix for smaller plants.
Quick soil summary
Open, well-draining houseplant mix
Watering context
Water when the upper part of the mix has dried
Humidity context
Average home humidity is usually acceptable
Light context
Bright indirect light to bright filtered light
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
50% peat-free houseplant base, 25% bark, 15% perlite, 10% coco coir.
Why this mix works
Ficus prefer a balanced mix with reliable drainage and moderate moisture retention.
Ingredient alternatives
Use pumice instead of perlite or coco chips for extra structure.
Repotting mix adjustments
Use a chunkier blend for larger woody plants.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase aeration in darker months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a finer but still open mix for smaller plants.
Quick soil summary
Open, well-draining houseplant mix
Watering context
Water when the upper part of the mix has dried
Humidity context
Average home humidity is usually acceptable
Light context
Bright indirect light to bright filtered light
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
50% peat-free houseplant base, 25% bark, 15% perlite, 10% coco coir.
Why this mix works
Ficus prefer a balanced mix with reliable drainage and moderate moisture retention.
Ingredient alternatives
Use pumice instead of perlite or coco chips for extra structure.
Repotting mix adjustments
Use a chunkier blend for larger woody plants.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase aeration in darker months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a finer but still open mix for smaller plants.
Quick soil summary
Open, well-draining houseplant mix
Watering context
Water when the upper part of the mix has dried
Humidity context
Average home humidity is usually acceptable
Light context
Bright indirect light to bright filtered light
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
50% peat-free houseplant base, 25% bark, 15% perlite, 10% coco coir.
Why this mix works
Ficus prefer a balanced mix with reliable drainage and moderate moisture retention.
Ingredient alternatives
Use pumice instead of perlite or coco chips for extra structure.
Repotting mix adjustments
Use a chunkier blend for larger woody plants.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase aeration in darker months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a finer but still open mix for smaller plants.
Quick soil summary
Open, well-draining houseplant mix
Watering context
Water when the upper part of the mix has dried
Humidity context
Average home humidity is usually acceptable
Light context
Bright indirect light to bright filtered light
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
35% cactus base mix, 35% pumice or grit, 20% perlite, 10% fine bark or coarse sand as suitable.
Why this mix works
Dry-adapted plants need rapid drainage and a root zone that does not stay wet for long.
Ingredient alternatives
Use lava rock, grit, or moler clay depending on the plant and availability.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase mineral content further for plants kept in low light or cool rooms.
Winter mix adjustments
Keep the mix especially free-draining during winter rest periods.
Young plant mix notes
Small plants can use a slightly finer but still strongly mineral mix.
Quick soil summary
Fast-draining succulent mix
Watering context
Water thoroughly, then let the mix dry well
Humidity context
Average home humidity is fine
Light context
Bright light with some direct sun for many varieties
Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
35% orchid bark, 25% coco chips, 20% perlite or pumice, 15% peat-free houseplant base, 5% charcoal.
Why this mix works
Hoyas prefer a loose root zone that dries quickly and resists compaction.
Ingredient alternatives
Use lava rock or zeolite in place of part of the perlite or pumice.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase coarse bark if plants stay wet too long.
Winter mix adjustments
Keep the mix extra airy in cooler lower-light months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer blend for small rooted cuttings.
Quick soil summary
Very airy epiphytic mix
Watering context
Allow partial drying between waterings
Humidity context
Average to moderate humidity
Light context
Bright indirect light with some gentle sun
Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
35% orchid bark, 25% coco chips, 20% perlite or pumice, 15% peat-free houseplant base, 5% charcoal.
Why this mix works
Hoyas prefer a loose root zone that dries quickly and resists compaction.
Ingredient alternatives
Use lava rock or zeolite in place of part of the perlite or pumice.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase coarse bark if plants stay wet too long.
Winter mix adjustments
Keep the mix extra airy in cooler lower-light months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer blend for small rooted cuttings.
Quick soil summary
Very airy epiphytic mix
Watering context
Allow partial drying between waterings
Humidity context
Average to moderate humidity
Light context
Bright indirect light with some gentle sun
Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
35% orchid bark, 25% coco chips, 20% perlite or pumice, 15% peat-free houseplant base, 5% charcoal.
Why this mix works
Hoyas prefer a loose root zone that dries quickly and resists compaction.
Ingredient alternatives
Use lava rock or zeolite in place of part of the perlite or pumice.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase coarse bark if plants stay wet too long.
Winter mix adjustments
Keep the mix extra airy in cooler lower-light months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer blend for small rooted cuttings.
Quick soil summary
Very airy epiphytic mix
Watering context
Allow partial drying between waterings
Humidity context
Average to moderate humidity
Light context
Bright indirect light with some gentle sun
Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
35% orchid bark, 25% coco chips, 20% perlite or pumice, 15% peat-free houseplant base, 5% charcoal.
Why this mix works
Hoyas prefer a loose root zone that dries quickly and resists compaction.
Ingredient alternatives
Use lava rock or zeolite in place of part of the perlite or pumice.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase coarse bark if plants stay wet too long.
Winter mix adjustments
Keep the mix extra airy in cooler lower-light months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer blend for small rooted cuttings.
Quick soil summary
Very airy epiphytic mix
Watering context
Allow partial drying between waterings
Humidity context
Average to moderate humidity
Light context
Bright indirect light with some gentle sun
Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
35% orchid bark, 25% coco chips, 20% perlite or pumice, 15% peat-free houseplant base, 5% charcoal.
Why this mix works
Hoyas prefer a loose root zone that dries quickly and resists compaction.
Ingredient alternatives
Use lava rock or zeolite in place of part of the perlite or pumice.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase coarse bark if plants stay wet too long.
Winter mix adjustments
Keep the mix extra airy in cooler lower-light months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer blend for small rooted cuttings.
Quick soil summary
Very airy epiphytic mix
Watering context
Allow partial drying between waterings
Humidity context
Average to moderate humidity
Light context
Bright indirect light with some gentle sun
Compaction sensitivity
4/5
Recommended soil recipe
45% peat-free houseplant base, 25% coco coir, 20% perlite, 10% fine bark.
Why this mix works
Prayer plants prefer even moisture with enough aeration to stop the root zone becoming stagnant.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap some coir for leaf mould or fine composted bark where available.
Repotting mix adjustments
Keep the blend light and avoid oversized pots.
Winter mix adjustments
Increase perlite slightly if the plant is drying very slowly.
Young plant mix notes
A finer, evenly moist blend suits juvenile roots best.
Quick soil summary
Light moisture-retentive airy mix
Watering context
Keep evenly moist but not waterlogged
Humidity context
Moderate to high humidity preferred
Light context
Medium to bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% chunky bark, 25% coco coir or peat-free houseplant base, 20% perlite or pumice, 10% worm castings, 5% horticultural charcoal.
Why this mix works
This mix keeps roots oxygenated while still holding enough moisture for steady tropical growth.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap bark for coco chips; swap perlite for pumice; swap worm castings for a light organic feed programme.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase bark and pumice for larger mature plants or if conditions run cool.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase drainage in lower light and cooler months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer version of the same mix for small plants with less coarse bark.
Quick soil summary
Chunky, airy aroid mix
Watering context
Water when the top layer starts to dry
Humidity context
Moderate to high humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% chunky bark, 25% coco coir or peat-free houseplant base, 20% perlite or pumice, 10% worm castings, 5% horticultural charcoal.
Why this mix works
This mix keeps roots oxygenated while still holding enough moisture for steady tropical growth.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap bark for coco chips; swap perlite for pumice; swap worm castings for a light organic feed programme.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase bark and pumice for larger mature plants or if conditions run cool.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase drainage in lower light and cooler months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer version of the same mix for small plants with less coarse bark.
Quick soil summary
Chunky, airy aroid mix
Watering context
Water when the top layer starts to dry
Humidity context
Moderate to high humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% chunky bark, 25% coco coir or peat-free houseplant base, 20% perlite or pumice, 10% worm castings, 5% horticultural charcoal.
Why this mix works
This mix keeps roots oxygenated while still holding enough moisture for steady tropical growth.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap bark for coco chips; swap perlite for pumice; swap worm castings for a light organic feed programme.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase bark and pumice for larger mature plants or if conditions run cool.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase drainage in lower light and cooler months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer version of the same mix for small plants with less coarse bark.
Quick soil summary
Chunky, airy aroid mix
Watering context
Water when the top layer starts to dry
Humidity context
Moderate to high humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% chunky bark, 25% coco coir or peat-free houseplant base, 20% perlite or pumice, 10% worm castings, 5% horticultural charcoal.
Why this mix works
This mix keeps roots oxygenated while still holding enough moisture for steady tropical growth.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap bark for coco chips; swap perlite for pumice; swap worm castings for a light organic feed programme.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase bark and pumice for larger mature plants or if conditions run cool.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase drainage in lower light and cooler months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer version of the same mix for small plants with less coarse bark.
Quick soil summary
Chunky, airy aroid mix
Watering context
Water when the top layer starts to dry
Humidity context
Moderate to high humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% chunky bark, 25% coco coir or peat-free houseplant base, 20% perlite or pumice, 10% worm castings, 5% horticultural charcoal.
Why this mix works
This mix keeps roots oxygenated while still holding enough moisture for steady tropical growth.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap bark for coco chips; swap perlite for pumice; swap worm castings for a light organic feed programme.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase bark and pumice for larger mature plants or if conditions run cool.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase drainage in lower light and cooler months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer version of the same mix for small plants with less coarse bark.
Quick soil summary
Chunky, airy aroid mix
Watering context
Water when the top layer starts to dry
Humidity context
Moderate to high humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
3/5
Recommended soil recipe
50% sphagnum peat or suitable carnivorous plant medium, 50% perlite or silica sand depending on genus.
Why this mix works
Carnivorous plants generally need nutrient-poor, moisture-retentive media rather than rich houseplant compost.
Ingredient alternatives
Use long-fibre sphagnum for some species where appropriate.
Repotting mix adjustments
Use genus-specific media adjustments rather than a standard indoor plant mix.
Winter mix adjustments
Keep the medium appropriate to dormancy needs rather than changing to richer compost.
Young plant mix notes
Keep media clean, low nutrient, and consistently suitable for the species.
Quick soil summary
Specialist carnivorous plant media
Watering context
Use suitable low-mineral water only
Humidity context
Species dependent, often moderate to high
Light context
Very bright light, species dependent
Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% chunky bark, 25% coco coir or peat-free houseplant base, 20% perlite or pumice, 10% worm castings, 5% horticultural charcoal.
Why this mix works
This mix keeps roots oxygenated while still holding enough moisture for steady tropical growth.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap bark for coco chips; swap perlite for pumice; swap worm castings for a light organic feed programme.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase bark and pumice for larger mature plants or if conditions run cool.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase drainage in lower light and cooler months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer version of the same mix for small plants with less coarse bark.
Quick soil summary
Chunky, airy aroid mix
Watering context
Water when the top layer starts to dry
Humidity context
Moderate to high humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% chunky bark, 25% coco coir or peat-free houseplant base, 20% perlite or pumice, 10% worm castings, 5% horticultural charcoal.
Why this mix works
This mix keeps roots oxygenated while still holding enough moisture for steady tropical growth.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap bark for coco chips; swap perlite for pumice; swap worm castings for a light organic feed programme.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase bark and pumice for larger mature plants or if conditions run cool.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase drainage in lower light and cooler months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer version of the same mix for small plants with less coarse bark.
Quick soil summary
Chunky, airy aroid mix
Watering context
Water when the top layer starts to dry
Humidity context
Moderate to high humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
Compaction sensitivity
5/5
Recommended soil recipe
40% chunky bark, 25% coco coir or peat-free houseplant base, 20% perlite or pumice, 10% worm castings, 5% horticultural charcoal.
Why this mix works
This mix keeps roots oxygenated while still holding enough moisture for steady tropical growth.
Ingredient alternatives
Swap bark for coco chips; swap perlite for pumice; swap worm castings for a light organic feed programme.
Repotting mix adjustments
Increase bark and pumice for larger mature plants or if conditions run cool.
Winter mix adjustments
Slightly increase drainage in lower light and cooler months.
Young plant mix notes
Use a slightly finer version of the same mix for small plants with less coarse bark.
Quick soil summary
Chunky, airy aroid mix
Watering context
Water when the top layer starts to dry
Humidity context
Moderate to high humidity preferred
Light context
Bright indirect light
