Currently i use 2 parts indoor potting soil to 1 part perlite, but i would like to incorporate a mix like this for aroids. My concern is that it looks so well draining im not sure my plants would retain enough water in a mix like this.
Well, I’d recommend to bottom-water most plants, just in general or whenever possible, if you can. Because then the plant gets just what it needs, and once the substrate is moist to the touch, remove the plant from the water. Watering from above and letting the water run out the bottom is not only wasteful, but doesn’t allow for adequate soaking. If I ever water from above, i make sure it drains onto another plant in the ground or another pot… but just set your pot in a tray of water, with or without fertilizer in it, and let it soak for an hour or longer if you want to. I mean, dependent on what the species is, lol. I actually have some large Brazil and heartleaf philodendrons still sitting in water, in their original soil and pots from Home Depot, since last night! Fourteen hours ago. I’m sure they’ve already soaked it up. And of course, they’re in six inch pots… so they dry practically instantly, anyway. So we’re good. Also, if you’re worried about losing moisture, that’s where the vermiculite, coco coir or husk, and orchid bark comes into play. A lot of people kind of dismiss vermiculite i think. But it’s really great for holding onto moisture and providing drainage. Even pumice and perlite, people forget it’s porous and can hold water, which is what attracts the roots to it.
When you water do you let it sit in water for a short period of time so the roots can soak up a bit of water? Love your videos. Thank you for sharing your planty knowledge.
Thank you so much for watching! Yes, I allow the plants to sit in the drained water for a good 20ish minutes to allow the roots to absorb all they need
I left some neon and Brazil heartleaf philodendrons sitting in water since 10:00 last night… twelve hours ago. Hehe 😂 But of course they’re in like six inch pots and dry out like no other anyway…and I know they’re good. If it’s a more succulent type plant, or Peperomia maybe I’d say an hour
