Healthy soil forms the foundation for successful plant growth. Whether for houseplants, on the balcony, or in the garden, soil improvement can be crucial for creating optimal conditions for root growth. From adding solid or liquid humus to loosening compacted soils, there are numerous ways to improve soil. Targeted soil improvement allows water and nutrients to be absorbed more efficiently, promotes soil life, and allows plants to grow better and root through the soil. In this article, we present practical tips for sustainably improving soils and substrates and explain the importance of good garden soil.
Why is soil so important for plants?
Soil, or the soil substrate, plays a crucial role in plant growth and development. It is the primary source of nutrients essential for plant growth. Soil also provides plants with mechanical support and enables root anchorage. Furthermore, soil influences water-holding capacity and availability by acting as a reservoir for moisture. Soil microorganisms promote the decomposition of organic matter and contribute to the formation of humus, which promotes soil fertility. The physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil thus directly influence plant growth and health.
Good drainage in the pot
Garden soil should not be compacted: Efficient drainage promotes healthy root growth and prevents waterlogging, which can lead to oxygen deprivation and root rot. Several measures should be taken to ensure good drainage. These include the use of soil amendments such as compost or biochar to loosen the soil structure.
Good drainage should also be ensured in the pot of houseplants. Always use a pot with drainage holes in the bottom to allow excess water to drain away. Place a layer of clay shards or pebbles at the bottom of the pot to create a cavity and improve water drainage. Use high-quality potting soil that drains well and can also retain water. Add mineral components such as perlite or vermiculite to improve drainage and loosen the soil structure. Make sure the pot is not too large to avoid waterlogging.
Improve soil structure for better root growth
To improve the soil and earth structure for better root growth in the garden and houseplants, there are some important information and tips:
- Plants root through the soil more easily when it is loose - this makes nutrient supply easier and ensures good growth!
- Good soil should provide roots with nutrients, water, and air. Good soil aeration is crucial for root growth.
- Check the soil's pH and adjust it if necessary to meet your plants' needs. Bog plants prefer acidic soil, while most houseplants prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil.
- Mulching with organic materials such as bark mulch or humus in the soil helps to regulate soil moisture and keep soil temperature stable.
Soil improvement in the garden - First determine soil type
Overall, there is no universally perfect soil or soil substrate for houseplants, as it depends on the specific requirements of the plants. It's important to consider the needs of each plant and adapt the soil accordingly. To do this, you should first determine the properties of your garden soil to determine whether soil improvement measures are necessary.
To determine whether the soil is heavy, light, hard, or sandy, you can observe various characteristics. Heavy soil is often clayey or loamy and feels sticky and compact. Light soil, on the other hand, contains more sand and feels loose and coarse-grained. Hard soil is usually compacted and difficult to work. Sandy soil is characterized by its coarse texture and allows water to drain quickly. By examining the soil consistency and observing moisture, texture, and drainage, you can determine the soil type and adjust it by adding organic matter.
Improving the soil substrate of houseplants
When mixing your plant substrate, it's important to balance the ratios of coarse, medium, and fine materials. You can mix mineral and organic components to create a good base.
Before using your potting soil, make sure it has the right consistency: Squeeze a handful of the soil together. If the soil falls apart, it's well-drained and your green favorites are ready for repotting!
Our FARBIO® organic fertilizer for green plants supports you in nourishing your houseplants! Fertilizing with key nutrients promotes rapid growth and supports the development of lush green leaves and magnificent blooms.
The ultimate soil improver: humic substances
Humic substances are formed through the humification of organic matter in the soil and are therefore components of humus. There are three groups of humic substances: humins, humic acids, and fulvic acids. Unlike humins, humic acids and fulvic acids dissolve in water and alkalis and are therefore particularly suitable for use as soil improvers and biostimulants.
Our FARBIO® soil improver is a natural and effective additive for your soil. Its special formula with humic acids optimizes the soil, improving nutrient uptake and promoting plant growth.
Enriching the soil with humic substances not only positively influences its structure and nutrient composition, but also optimizes the habitat of plants and desirable microorganisms. This indirectly promotes root growth and nutrient uptake.
Humic substances can be mixed directly into the soil in the form of humus, or you can give your houseplants humus in liquid form!
When applied directly to the plant, for example, as a foliar application, fulvic acids have a hormone-like effect, improving growth while promoting plant enzymes within the plant. Consequently, the entire plant is supported and its natural defenses against biotic and abiotic stress are strengthened.
