Many of us know the value held by compost because it acts like soil amendment. A range of organic substances like animal and plant matter is used in making it. No one can beat this excellent plant nutrients soil source which can be also used as a mulch.
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Are you wondering how to use compost in potting soil and container gardening? The simple answer is yes because, after all, the need for compost is to improve plant life. So, there is no need to think whether you’re using it outside or inside, in a pot, or in soil.
Steps to use compost in potting soil and container gardening
Choose the compost
It is better to use compost which has been strained by a screen. For this purpose, you can take a wooden frame and mesh hardware cloth and then attach them to make a screen. After that, sift your compost by it.
There will be no best compost in comparison to the one you made. After all, you know what organic materials are being used which will be of the highest quality. But if you’re buying from the store, then don’t forget to check their quality certification.
Amount
While preparing it in soil, then there is no need to add more than 50% of compost. In case, you have little compost, then, while planting you can add a few inches of compost near the roots. Once it is growing, you can add only a little mulch near the plant base.
Now, you might be thinking if I will add more compost, it would be much better for my pot or container plant. The simple answer is no, because if you’ll use too much compost, then there will be loose texture. The result would be water draining fast, and there are chances that your plants might go through underwatering.
Best time
In simple words, there is no specific time to add compost. So, you can add compost while you’re preparing the soil for your container or pot plant. Every few weeks you can add little compost for your plants to get at least some nutrients.
If there is a chance of rain, then there is no need to add compost because, with this, your compost can easily wash away. Even before watering your plant in the morning, you can add compost to the potting or container soil.
Mix and mix
On your ground, spread a layer of plastic sheet or newspaper. Even if you have a wheelbarrow, you can use it. Now, it’s time to put the soil on the surface but use the soil as much as you required for your plants.
After that, use compost about 25% to 50% in your soil, then mix it. While preparing this compost mixture keep adding a little water to it. Finally, you can add this soil to your pot or container to grow plants in them.
How often?
There is no need for compost as often when flowering plants are being grown. However, during the growing season adding at least 2-3 times will work. On the other hand, if resource-hungry plants are being grown, like vegetables, then it is better to add compost every month on top of your soil.
If your potting soil bag already comprises some fertilizer or compost, then must check out them. In case, they have, there is no need of adding compost while preparing the pot or container soil. If there is compost tea, you can add them frequently to the soil because it is diluted.
Tips for potting soil and container gardening
Temperature and light
During the day, your chosen spot must receive ample sunlight. You can pick a place by putting your planter anywhere but consider the times taken by the sun to hit them. So, according to the temperature and light requirements, just move your pots or containers.
Water drainage
Whenever you’re looking for a container or pot, don’t forget to check the drainage holes. Unfortunately, if there are no holes, then don’t worry, just pick up your drill machine and start drilling some. The thing to note here is that there aren’t large holes, but they needed to be big enough for dripping out the excess water.
Switch to microgreens
Yes, you can grow any kind of microgreen, and it will perfectly fit in your pot or container. They are easier to grow because within 7-10 days they will be ready to harvest. The great part about such greens is that you can expect nutrition which can be further added to your dish.
Go for herbs
In your pot or container, you can grow any kind of herb. Even if there is a small one, your herbs can still thrive because they never need a large space for their growth. It is up to you whether you want to grow distinctive herbs in separate containers or mix them up for growing in a big container. With this, your dishes will get fresh garnishing ingredients easily.
Conclusion
With the growth of the plant, even the best soil can turn into nutrient depleted one. So, even your indoor plants require compost because it will aid in retaining nutrients and moisture. You can expect the best pairing of container and house plants until you’re giving them a proper amount of moisture and sunlight.
