Soilless Growing Media

Soilless growing is great and has easily become the method of choice for plumeria growers because of its superior properties, and ease of amending. Soilless media allows for the ultimate control over desired inputs, drainage properties, pH and nutrient control. The most common soilless potting mixes are made with one of two bases.

The most common base is Coco Coir. This media is 100% natural and made from coconut husk fibers. It is generally a finely ground blend with some desired variation. It has the perfect air to water ratio, and thus is hard to over water. Coco coir also has a high CEC encouraging optimal nutrient release. Due to its superior qualities Coco coir allows for rapid growth. Keep in mind that with Coco coir bases, Calcium -Magnesium supplementation may be needed.

If it is not a coco coir base, it is generally a peat based mix. Peat is partially decayed and dried sphagnum moss. It is extremely high in organic matter, and retains moisture better than coco coir. Thus, it is not as forgiving if you over water. By itself, peat usually has a very low pH, between 3 and 5. In potting mixes you can help balance the acidity with the addition of lime. For a peat based potting mix our go to of choice is Pro-Mix.

Amendments

Once you’ve decided which base is best for your growing conditions, next you have the soilless amendments. Amendments help define the final properties of the mix, which is customized for health growth results. Common amendments include the following, and added for the following reasons.

• Perlite: increases drainage and aeration
• Dolomite lime: buffers pH, provides calcium and magnesium
• Worm castings: natural source of nitrogen, enhances beneficial microbe population
• Mycorrhizae: symbiotic growth on and around roots, increases water and nutrient uptake
• Azomite: buffers pH, slow release of micronutrients
• Oyster shell: buffers pH, provides calcium
• Dried kelp: source of potassium and natural plant hormones
• Alfalfa meal: organic source of balanced fertilizer, amino acids and triacontanol
• Feather meal: source of organic slow release nitrogen
• Fishbone meal: organic source of phosphorus and calcium

Typical Ground or Garden Soil

Soil is used almost exclusively in outdoor growing. Its composition varies from place to place and consists of countless natural and native components. These components include mineral particles- sand, silt, and clay (45% collectively), air (20-30%), water (20-30%), organic matter (1-6%), microorganisms and the ever pervasive weed seed.  Organic (carbonaceous) matter, often referred to as humus, is composed of decaying plant and animal remains. Microorganisms include both beneficial and harmful bacteria and fungi. Weed seeds are one of the grower’s greatest foes. Not only are they a nuisance, but they also compete with your crop for water and nutrients.

Since the composition changes from area to area, the properties change along with it. Soil with a healthy ratio of soil particles and organic matter will have good drainage. If the soil is compacted with low aeration, roots and plant growth will struggle. Conversely, if there is too much drainage, growth will also be hindered due to a lack of water and nutrient retention.

Along with your soil composition changing from area to area with soil, so will your soil fertility. The most important aspects of soil fertility to keep in mind include the presence and amount of organic matter, macro and micro nutrients, pH and CEC. There are various amendments and fertilizers that can help you achieve desired results in an outdoor setting.