Soil and potting mix for plants
Plants require a growing medium that will provide a few basic elements essential for proper plant care.
- drainage
It is essential to provide appropriate levels of drainage for individual plant species. Differenr growing mediums have different drainage properties. Succulents and many Orchids require a free draining soil or potting mix, while plants such as Rodgersia require a much damper situation and thrive in a waterside planting.
- nutrition
Different plants have different types of minerals and trace elenets in the soil to promote growth and so require a range of fertilizer requirements for proper care, specialist fertilizers are available roses, rhododenrons, fruit trees and many other plants that provide for different needs.
- support
Soil and potting mix also provide support for plants by encouraging root growth.
Moisture humidity and water.
- Again requirements differ. Some plants require regular watering, other resent watering. Tropical plants require increased humidity.
Temperature
- Fitting in with the humidity factor, temperature can be important for proper plant care. Growing tropical or sub tropical plants may require a green house. Cold loving Alpine plants will not survive in hot dry climates.
Light
- Differant plants require diferent amounts and types of light. Proper car involves providing the appropriate amount and quality of light. Ferns are generallt shade lovers, many bulbs require direct sun, others prefer part shade.
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