Our go to soil mix and why we choose it!

Our soil recommendations! 

Why We Switched to a Universal Soil Mix (and Why It Works So Well) When it comes to houseplants, you’ll often hear that every plant needs its own specific soil blend—succulents need one thing, tropicals another, aroids something else entirely. And while that approach can work, we’ve found something simpler (and honestly, more effective for most plant parents): a thoughtfully crafted universal soil mix that supports a wide variety of plants all in one.

At our shop, we use a custom blend that balances drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient support—giving plants exactly what they need without overcomplicating things.

Whether you’re caring for a Monstera, Hoya, Philodendron, or even many succulents, this mix creates a strong, healthy foundation. --- What’s in Our Soil Mix (and Why It Matters)

 Organic Potting Soil- 

This is the base of our mix and provides essential nutrients that plants need to grow and thrive. It also helps retain just enough moisture so roots don’t dry out too quickly, making it a great starting point for a balanced soil structure.

Coconut Coir / Chips or Orchid Bark-

 These chunky materials are key to airflow. They prevent the soil from becoming compacted and allow roots to breathe, which is especially important for tropical plants. Coconut coir also holds moisture evenly without becoming soggy, while orchid bark adds structure and durability to the mix.

 Perlite-

 Perlite is all about drainage. Those little white pieces create air pockets in the soil, helping excess water move through quickly. This reduces the risk of root rot and keeps the soil light and fluffy.

Tropical Mix (with Lava Rock)-

Our tropical blend adds even more aeration and structure. Lava rock, in particular, is excellent for improving drainage while also holding small amounts of moisture and minerals. It helps mimic the natural environments from which many houseplants come from. 

Sphagnum Moss-

Sphagnum moss is a moisture-balancing powerhouse. It retains water while still allowing airflow, helping to keep roots consistently hydrated without becoming waterlogged. It’s especially helpful for plants that like a bit of humidity around their roots.

**Optional Additives for an Extra Boost

 Worm Castings-

 Think of this as a natural fertilizer. Worm castings add beneficial nutrients and microbes to the soil, supporting healthy growth and stronger root systems over time.

 Activated Charcoal-

 Activated charcoal helps keep the soil fresh by absorbing impurities and reducing odors. It can also help prevent bacterial and fungal buildup, making it a great addition for long-term plant health.

 ** What About Cactus & Succulent Plants?

 For cacti and succulents, we use this same base mix—with one important adjustment: we add sand. The extra sand increases drainage even further, ensuring that water moves through quickly and roots don’t sit in moisture. This creates the dry, fast-draining environment that desert plants need to thrive.

 **Why We Love This Approach

 Using a universal mix keeps things simple without sacrificing plant health. It allows for flexibility, consistency, and confidence—whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned plant collector. Instead of juggling multiple soil types, you can focus on what really matters: caring for your plants and watching them grow. And at the end of the day, that’s what it’s all about