Choosing the Right Potting Mix

There are four basic kinds of potting mix, but how do you know which one you need? Which is the best for long-lived plants? What's the fuss about peat? Are peat-free mixes any good? Here are the pros and cons.

Font
  • A
  • A
  • A

E-mail This Page to Your Friends

x

All fields are required.

Separate multiple e-mail addresses with a comma; Maximum 20 email addresses.

Refresh

Sending E-mail

Sending E-mail

Or Do Not E-mail

Success!

A link to %this page% was e-mailed

+ Enlarge Photo
Shrink Photo
Peat-Free Potting Mix
Featured Products in This Gallery

DK - Simple Steps to Success: Containers for Patios © 2007 Dorling Kindersley Limited

Peat-Free Potting Mix

As concern about peat-stripped areas and ruined habitats grows, so the sales of peat-free potting mix have increased. One of the best, and least environmentally damaging, options is green waste compost. Made from recycled household waste, it is dark, black, and heavy, and suitable for most garden and potted plant needs. Otherwise, try coir, or composted bark (except for use with seeds and seedlings).

Advantages
- Good nutrient levels.
- Retains moisture well.
- Inexpensive.
- Heat treatment has eliminated pests, diseases, and weeds.

Disadvantages
- Some peat-free potting mixes give better results than others with certain plants.

Advertisement
Loading...

Please forgive us, this gallery is really popular.

We sent a note to our support staff about the glitch you just experienced. Please click the button below to reload your content.

We Recommend...

Container Gardening in the Spring

Container Gardening in the Spring

This elegant spring show builds up from the alternating white and blue hyacinths to the blue grape hyacinths (Muscari), hidden...

Create a Year-Round Shrub Display

Create a Year-Round Shrub Display

Containers aren't just for summer flowers; displays for fall and winter often last longer and help brighten up the cold, dark...

Making and Planting a Windowbox

Making and Planting a Windowbox

Use containers to bring harvestable crops to your kitchen windowsill. If you can't find the perfect size container, build your...

Recently Added Designer Outdoor Spaces

Browse new outdoor spaces from top designers.

See More Designer Outdoor Spaces

HGTV Outdoors Newsletter

Find out how to make the most of patios, decks and all your outdoor areas, plus tips from master gardeners for beautiful flower beds and bountiful vegetable gardens.

    Shop Outdoor Products

    Shop outdoor products from fire pits to outdoor furniture, planters and more

    Shop Outdoor Products