From our perspective, the single most critical factor for our root system is the avoidance of waterlogged conditions. Our roots are adept at absorbing moisture and nutrients, but they are not adapted to sit in stagnant water. Constant saturation leads to root rot, a fungal condition that decays the roots, preventing them from functioning and ultimately leading to our decline. Therefore, the primary purpose of your soil mix is not just to hold us, but to allow water to flow through it rapidly while still retaining a minimal amount of moisture for our uptake. A loose, chunky mix that mimics the well-draining litter of a forest floor is ideal.
A perfect soil mix for us is a well-balanced, soilless medium. We do not thrive in dense, heavy garden soil. The blend should be airy and porous. A high-quality potting mix serves as a good base, providing a small amount of water retention and organic matter. To this base, you must add generous amounts of materials that create air pockets. Coarse horticultural sand or perlite is essential; these particles do not break down easily and ensure water drains quickly while preventing compaction. Pine bark fines or orchid bark chunks are another vital ingredient. They add structure, improve aeration as they slowly break down, and provide a perfect texture for our roots to grip and grow through.
To create the optimal environment for our root system, we recommend a specific ratio of components. A reliable and effective recipe is one part standard potting mix, one part coarse perlite, and one part orchid bark or pine bark fines. This combination creates a mix that is approximately 60% inorganic matter (for drainage) and 40% organic matter (for minimal moisture and nutrient retention). This ratio ensures that after a thorough watering, excess water will drain from the pot's holes within seconds, leaving the mix moist but not saturated. The chunks of bark create crucial air pockets that supply oxygen to our roots, which is as vital as water itself.
The perfect soil mix can be undermined by an inappropriate container. You must plant us in a pot that has ample drainage holes. Terracotta pots are an excellent choice because the porous clay allows the soil to dry out more evenly from the sides, further reducing the risk of overwatering. When repotting, which should be done every 2-3 years or when you see roots circling the pot's bottom, gently loosen the root ball to encourage outward growth into the new medium. Always ensure the new pot is only one size larger than the old one; a pot that is too large will hold excess soil that stays wet for too long, creating a dangerous environment for our roots far from the main stem.
