Can the soil from potting be reused for growing flowers? How to mix universal potting soil?
The editor will answer your questions about whether the soil from potting can be reused for growing flowers and how to mix universal potting soil, followed by an introduction to the knowledge of green plants and flowers. Let's understand this together next.
Potting is a common operation in the process of growing flowers, usually carried out when the plant has grown to a certain extent and the existing pot does not have enough space to support the root system. During potting, the treatment of the old soil is an issue worth attention. Many people ask whether the soil taken out can be reused for growing flowers. The answer is yes, but it needs proper treatment and improvement.
Firstly, the soil taken out may contain a large number of old roots, pathogens, and pests, which can harm new plants if used directly. Therefore, it needs to be thoroughly disinfected and treated before use. There are various methods of disinfection, such as boiling at high temperatures, sunning, or using chemical disinfectants. Moreover, the nutrients in the old soil may have been depleted, so new fertilizers and organic matter need to be added to restore the soil's fertility.
The preparation of universal potting soil is a process that requires comprehensive consideration of the plant's growth needs, soil characteristics, and environmental conditions. Here are some basic principles and methods:
Basic Medium: The basic medium of universal potting soil usually consists of garden soil, leaf mold, and sand. Garden soil provides the basic structure of the soil, leaf mold is rich in organic matter and nutrients, and sand helps to improve the soil's drainage and aeration.
Organic Matter: Organic matter is an indispensable component of potting soil, providing nutrients needed for plant growth and improving the physical properties of the soil. Common organic matters include decomposed cow dung, sheep dung, compost, and peat soil.
Slow-release Fertilizers: To ensure the long-term growth needs of plants, a proper amount of slow-release fertilizers can be added to the potting soil, such as bone meal, diammonium phosphate, and compound fertilizers. These fertilizers can slowly release nutrients to meet the growth needs of plants.
Microbial Agents: Microbial agents can increase beneficial microorganisms in the soil, promoting plant root growth and nutrient absorption. Common microbial agents include EM bacteria, rhizobia, etc.
PH Adjusters: Different plants have different requirements for soil pH, so when preparing potting soil, it may be necessary to adjust the soil's pH value. Common pH adjusters include lime, ferrous sulfate, etc.
Water Retaining and Drainage Materials: To improve the water retention and drainage of the soil, water retaining agents and drainage materials such as vermiculite, perlite, and ceramsite can be added to the potting soil.
Preparation Ratio: The preparation ratio of universal potting soil is not fixed and needs to be adjusted according to the plant's growth habits and the actual condition of the soil. Generally, the ratio of basic medium, organic matter, and slow-release fertilizers can be controlled at about 3:2:1, and the addition of other components is adjusted according to needs.
In summary, the soil taken out can be reused for growing flowers after proper treatment and improvement. The preparation of universal potting soil needs to be comprehensively considered based on the specific needs of the plant and environmental conditions to achieve the best results for growing flowers. Through careful soil management and plant care, a healthy and fertile growing environment can be provided for the plant, promoting robust growth.
The above experience and knowledge about whether the soil from potting can be reused for growing flowers and how to mix universal potting soil introduced to you, hoping this article can bring you some help!