The Ultimate Guide to Houseplant Potting Soil

If you're an avid gardener or plant enthusiast like we are at Ed's Plant Shop, you know that having the correct potting soil is essential for the success of your plants. With so many options on the market, it is easy to get overwhelmed with the different varieties.

Since every plant has unique needs, we stock various potting soil options to cater to each individual need. Whether you're looking for a specific type of soil for your Pink Princess or need a specialized blend for a succulent, we've got you covered.

Since we know it can be confusing, so we've created this comprehensive guide to potting soil, where we'll cover everything you need to know about selecting the perfect soil. Don't fret, Ed's Plant Shop in Brooklyn, NY has you covered!

Rosy Soil - Earth Positive Potting Soil

We don't like to bring the "boring" aspect of plant care to our top four, but this soil is so great we just had to. Rosy Soil is the perfect soil for your houseplants. Most potting soils are full of non-sustainable peat and coco-coir-based media, and are prone to fungus gnats. Rosy soil is different, made of Biochar, this growing medium promotes proper air circulation in the soil, which leads to happy healthy roots.

Biochar is a highly porous form of charcoal that is created through the process of pyrolysis, which involves heating organic material, such as wood or agricultural waste, in the absence of oxygen. Biochar has many benefits for potting soil, making it a popular choice for both home gardeners and commercial growers. Biochar has a high surface area that can absorb and hold nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are then released slowly over time as the plant needs them. 

BEST FOR: Foliage plants such as Philodendron, Ferns, Flowering Plants and Tropicals such as Monstera

RECOMMENDED IF: You tend to overwater, live in a humid location, or have experienced issues with fungus gnats in the past

Organic Mechanics All-Purpose Potting Soil

We're huge fans of Organic Mechanics All-Purpose Potting Soil because it is a well-formulated blend that works on a wide selection of houseplants. Organic Mechanics All-Purpose Potting Soil is a premium blend of natural ingredients that provide the necessary nutrients and structure for plants to thrive.

The Organic Mechanics All-Purpose Potting Soil is a combination of aged bark fines, sphagnum peat moss, coir, composted chicken manure, perlite, and a proprietary blend of organic fertilizers and minerals. These ingredients work together to provide a well-draining, nutrient-rich environment.

The aged bark fines and coir provide excellent drainage and aeration to the soil, preventing waterlogged conditions and allowing plant roots to breathe. The sphagnum peat moss and composted chicken manure provides a rich source of organic matter and nutrients for plant growth, while perlite adds additional drainage and aeration.

The people at Organic Mechanics, we’re passionate about all natural, sustainable gardening, which is a huge reason we love their products. 

BEST FOR: Thick foliage plants such as Aglaonema, vining plants such as Pothos and Hoya, microgreens, and houseplants that don't like too much water such as Sansevieria.

RECOMMENDED IF: You have a pot with a small drainage hole, your plants are exposed to full sun throughout the day, or are looking for an organic soil to grow herbs or veggies.

 

 

 Tropical Climber Blend - Ed's Dry Soil

 If you're getting into growing exotic monstera or climbing rare Philodendrons, your plant is only going to be as good as the soil that it's growing in. At Ed's Plant Shop, we understand that your plants are your babies and they deserve the best soil! That's why we offer our special "dry soil" for plants that don't like to have wet feet! 

Many rare houseplants plants have specific soil requirements to thrive because they come from tropical rainforests where the soil is rich in organic matter, nutrients, and has good drainage. The soil needs to be able to retain moisture without becoming waterlogged, which can cause root rot and other issues. Our blend is a perfect mixture that provides good aeration and drainage while retaining moisture and nutrients for the plant. It is also slightly acidic, which is ideal for those tropical babies in your collection. 

BEST FOR: Climbing Philodendron, Monstera, Pothos and other climbing tropicals

RECOMMENDED IF: You're transplanting your tropical plant for the first time, you struggle with overwatering and yellowing leaves, or want a soil that requires the least amount of watering

SHOP FOR OUR TROPICAL CLIMBER BLEND SOIL HERE

 ZOMBIE MAIDEN BLEND - FOR MOISTURE LOVING PLANTS

Don't let the odd name fool you, our Zombie Maiden blend is a total game changer for those cranky plants that crave water but can also throw a temper tantrum when given too much. Moisture-loving plants have specific requirements for water retention, drainage, and nutrient availability. If the soil is not appropriate for these plants, it can lead to several problems. These problems can include chlorosis and potentially death!

Moisture-loving plants also tend to require a lot of nutrients to support their growth and development. Zombie Maiden soil is specially formulated for these plants and contains organic matter, which breaks down and releases nutrients over time, providing the plant with a continuous source of food.

BEST FOR: All types of ferns including Maiden hair and Boston, Ficus, and Spider Plants

RECOMMENDED IF: You tend to forget to water, you love ferns but struggle to keep them watered, or are looking to freshen up the soil in your pots. 

 

 DESERT SUCCULENT SOIL BLEND

Desert houseplants have become the latest rage in houseplants due to their easy going nature.  They tend to survive the best in arid environments, where the soil is often sandy, rocky, and lacks organic matter. As a result, they require a specific soil mix that mimics their natural habitat and provides the necessary nutrients and moisture they need to thrive. Most homes lack this arid climate, so the right soil is crucial, our Desert Succulent Soil blend will take the guess work out of succulent soil selection. 

Our Desert Succulent Soil has excellent drainage, which prevents water from accumulating around the roots and causing rot. It also be able to retains some moisture, as desert plants typically receive infrequent but heavy rainfall, followed by long periods of drought. Using a regular potting mix or soil that is too heavy or retains too much moisture can lead to root rot, which can be fatal for your beloved desert houseplants. On the other hand, using a soil that doesn't retain enough moisture can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die.

BEST FOR: All cacti and succulent, Snake Plants, and Aloe

RECOMMENDED IF: You love succulents but tend to overwater, live in a humid location, or are using pots with insufficient drainage

Shop for Desert Succulent Blend Here

 

Didn't see what you needed listed above, click here to see our full selection of potting soils. 

From understanding the different types of potting soil available to learning how to properly mix and amend your soil, we've got you covered. 

If you're looking for high-quality potting soil for your plants, look no further than Ed's Plant Shop in Brooklyn, NY. With a wide variety of specialized soil mixes to choose from, including options for moisture-loving, desert, and tropical plants, Ed's Plant Shop has everything you need to keep your plants healthy and thriving. Plus, their expert staff is always available to provide guidance and advice on which soil mix would work best for your specific needs. So why settle for subpar soil when you can get the best?

Visit Ed's Plant Shop today and give your plants the soil they deserve! We ship nationwide and offer in-store shopping hours for your convivence!