Soil Mixes
Soils for containers need to have three key elements. They must be well drained, have good aeration (pore spaces for air), and retain enough water to maintain good growth.
Because of this, container soils need to be modified to provide for these essential elements.
Mixes for containers are available under a variety of trade names and are usually referred to as "soilless" mixes. Soilless mixes are composed of two parts: a mineral part and an organic part. The mineral part may be vermiculite, perlite, builders sand, pumice or a combination of any two or three. The organic part may be peat, fir bark, pine bark or a combination of any two or three. Soilless mixes provide an excellent environment for growing healthy roots. They also need special attention to watering and fertilizing.
If you prefer to use a mix that has a soil component, a traditional 1:1:1 mix can be made. Mix together one part good garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or coarse builders sand. Soil based mixes tend to be a little more forgiving in regards to moisture and fertilizing.
Containers should be filled to within about one inch of the top to allow room for water.
