Growing Media

Several types of growing media are used in horticulture. They aim to provide optimal conditions for plant growth and development. They should be tailored to the plant species, free from pathogens and pests, and rich in nutrients.

Each growing medium has its own application

The most popular one is universal soil. It is used for planting plants in containers, topdressing newly established lawns, or seedling production. Peat moss is added to heavy soils with disturbed water-air ratios and for plants growing in acidic soils. Mineral wool is also well-known, and it is essential for hydroponic and controlled environment cultivation. On the other hand, expanded clay improves the permeability of growing media mixes and is ideal for plants grown in hydroculture and tall pots. Coconut fiber is often used as a growing medium and serves as an alternative to mineral wool. Coconut provides good permeability and aeration of the medium. Proper water-air ratios are also achieved with perlite and vermiculite. Perlite is made from volcanic rock, while vermiculite is expanded mica. Both growing media are used for seedlings and small plant propagation or to improve the properties of other substances. Gravel is also a good medium, especially for plant propagation.

The growing medium affects the crop's condition

That's why it's essential to prepare it properly. Poorly prepared soil will not even sprout the best seeds, seedlings will not grow, and the harvest will be significantly below average. Therefore, it's essential to prepare it with great care for cultivation.