Google is a fantastic resource for finding answers to those burning questions, whether it's about woodchucks or spots on your bum. However, sometimes finding the right answers can be a bit challenging.
So, let's dive into some of the most frequently asked questions about Soil.Ninja on Google. You might just find the answers to the questions that have been on your mind!
Question: What is Soil Ninja?
Answer: Soil Ninja started as a group of friends who shared a love for houseplants and a desire to share our knowledge and experience with soil. Over time, we have grown into a small company of eight dedicated individuals, spreading the joy of quality soil far and wide!
If you want healthy plants, it all starts with the soil. We are passionate about guiding and assisting people on their plant journey. That's why we have developed a range of premium soil blends for all types of houseplants, along with high-quality components for those who prefer to mix their own.
Rather than asking "what," we encourage you to ask "why." We have a dedicated blog post that delves into why you should choose Soil Ninja. Check it out for more information!
Question: How do I make Monstera soil?
Answer: If you're just starting out, determining the right components and ratios for Monstera soil can be challenging due to the abundance of conflicting information out there. Monstera plants thrive in a chunky and airy blend, so we recommend incorporating aerating amendments like Pumice, Bark, and Zeolite. Combine these with a base of Coco coir and worm castings for optimal results.
We have a fantastic base mix that can be customised for various houseplants. Our blog post titled "Mix Up The Base" provides detailed information on this mix, along with example ratios for you to try. Alternatively, you can opt for our convenient Premium Monstera and Philodendron mix. Check it out and get your hands dirty!
Question: What's the best soil for succulents?
Answer: We have the perfect blend for your desert-loving succulents - our iconic Cacti and Succulent blend! Succulents thrive in well-draining soil as they dislike having wet roots. Take a look at our Soil.Ninja Premium Cacti and Succulent Blend for your succulent needs.
Soil.Ninja Premium Cacti and Succulent Blend
Question: What soil do I use for Philodendron?
Answer: We've got you covered! Our chunky and airy Monstera and Philodendron soil mix is designed specifically for your Philodendron plants. Check out our Soil.Ninja Premium Monstera and Philodendron Soil Blend.
Soil.Ninja Premium Monstera and Philodendron Soil Blend
Question: What's the best soil for Alocasia?
Answer: The best soil for Alocasias is a slightly acidic, well-draining blend that retains moisture. Our Alocasia blend is perfect for these plants, as it provides the ideal balance. Alocasias prefer soil that stays lightly moist without becoming waterlogged. Explore our Soil.Ninja Premium Alocasia Soil Blend for a healthy and thriving Alocasia plant.
Soil.Ninja Premium Alocasia Soil Blend
Question: Why is perlite white?
Answer: The story begins with volcanic eruptions that release lava, which eventually solidifies into volcanic rock and volcanic glass. Perlite is derived from a specific type of volcanic glass called obsidian. When obsidian is hydrated, it transforms into perlite. During the manufacturing process, perlite is superheated, causing the water within its structure to vaporise and expand the aggregate up to 16 times its original volume. This expansion turns the aggregate from its initial greyish colour to the brilliant white perlite we know and love. The material is then graded, removing dust and separating it into different grain sizes for various uses, including promoting root health in potted plants.
Question: Do Monsteras love coffee grounds?
Answer: There is no scientific research confirming that adding coffee grounds benefits Monsteras or any houseplants. While some individuals in the plant community have used coffee grounds without experiencing negative effects, it is not a foolproof or scientifically proven method. Using coffee grounds on outdoor plants is more beneficial due to the presence of microbes and microorganisms that break them down quickly, releasing the nutrients within the grounds and making them more accessible to plants. Indoor plants have fewer microbes and a different ecosystem compared to outdoor plants. As an alternative, we recommend using worm castings, which not only provide useful nutrients but also support the plant's ecosystem.
Question: Do Monstera like small pots?
Answer: Monstera plants do not thrive when completely restricted with no room for soil around the root ball. However, they also don't prefer excessively large pots. When potting your Monstera, allow some breathing room between the root ball and the pot, typically around 5-10cm. Different sources provide conflicting information about Monstera pot size, but based on our experience, repotting a root-bound Monstera often stimulates new growth. If your Monstera's growth has stalled without any changes in environment or care, it may be worth checking the root system and considering a slightly larger pot.
For more guidance on repotting, refer to our comprehensive blog post titled "How To Repot Your Houseplant - The Ultimate Guide."
How To Repot Your Houseplant - The Ultimate Guide
Question: What kind of pots do Monsteras like?
Answer: Monsteras appreciate pots with drainage holes to ensure proper water flow. Terracotta pots can help the soil dry out more quickly, but any typical nursery pot with sufficient drainage will work well. Clear pots are also beneficial if you want to closely monitor the root ball's condition.
Question: Can you plant succulents into just rocks?
Answer: Absolutely! If you're interested in trying this method, our fine Semi-hydro blend might be the perfect option for you. We have achieved amazing results growing xeric plants in this substrate. You can find more information on how to do this in our comprehensive guide to Semi-Hydro. However, when using this blend for succulents or cacti, please avoid using a water reservoir and instead water them as you would in soil.
Check out our Soil.Ninja Fine Semi-Hydro Mix and The Complete Soil.Ninja Guide To Semi-Hydro for further details.
Soil.Ninja Fine Semi-Hydro Mix
The Complete Soil.Ninja Guide To Semi-Hydro
Question: How often should succulents be watered?
Answer: Determining the frequency of watering for succulents is always a bit challenging. It can vary depending on the season, the environment, and the type of soil used.
During winter months, you may only need to water them once a month, if that! Xeric plants can even go up to two months without watering. In the summer, watering every other week may be necessary, but it ultimately depends on the plant and its specific needs. Always ensure that the plant has completely dried out since the last watering. Succulents are prone to overwatering, so remember that less is more with these plants.
Question: What can I use instead of perlite?
Answer: There are several alternatives you can use instead of perlite, depending on your specific requirements.
First, it's important to understand why you are using perlite. One of perlite's key properties is its ability to provide aeration, creating pockets of air in the soil for roots to breathe. This feature can be replicated to varying degrees using different components, each with its own secondary characteristics that can help you create the ideal blend.
For example, if you need a mix for a plant that requires moisture retention, vermiculite is an excellent alternative. Vermiculite retains water well and is suitable for blends that need to remain moist for extended periods. Zeolite is another great option as an aerator that can also provide nutrient storage sites in the mix, making it beneficial for plants that require fertile soil with readily available nutrients.
Additional alternatives include pumice, which has high air porosity and is exceptional at trapping air in the mix, and bark, which adds organic matter to the blend.
Perlite is often favoured because it is cost-effective, making it a popular choice among many plant enthusiasts. Overall, perlite does an excellent job of keeping plant roots healthy and strong while being budget-friendly.
Question: Why put pebbles on succulents?
Answer: There are no hard rules when it comes to adding pebbles to your succulents. If you want to do it, go ahead! It's a great way to decorate your plants, and it can also help combat issues with fungus gnats. Feel free to express your own style and preferences!
Question: Do succulents need rocks at the bottom?
Answer: As long as you have a well-draining blend suitable for succulents, you don't need to add rocks at the bottom of the pot. However, if you really want to do it, there's nothing stopping you!
Question: Do succulents need deep soil?
Answer: Succulents generally have shallow root systems, so planting them in deep pots poses a risk to the plants. When you water succulents in deep soil, the moisture will stay trapped for longer, and the plant won't be able to utilise all of it, potentially leading to root rot. This principle applies to most houseplants, so it's important to be cautious when selecting a pot. We always recommend using terracotta pots for succulents as they naturally facilitate faster drying of the soil, providing an extra safety net against overwatering and root rot. Our "How to repot your houseplant" blog post may offer helpful guidance in this regard.
For further information on repotting your houseplants, refer to our comprehensive Soil.Ninja Guide To Repotting Your Houseplants.
The Soil.Ninja Guide To Repotting Your Houseplants
These were just a few of the most searched questions. If your burning question wasn't covered, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to assist you on your plant journey!