Guide to Soils and Potting Mixes

Garden soils and potting mixes differ and should not be used interchangeable. Any soil can be improved, so customize to create a plant-perfect blend.

Heavy, sticky clay holds water and compacts easily.

See what plants thrive in clay soils.

Gritty sand drains quickly and doesn't hold nutrients.

Crumbly silt holds nutrients and moisture but packs down.

Equal parts sand, perlite, and potting soil provide the drainage these plants need.

Jazz up potting soil by adding perlite, composted manure, vermiculite, and peat moss.

A blend of peat moss, vermiculite, and composted bark works for most plants.