Beginner Gardening: Questions about my Fittonia, 1 by tapla

tapla wrote:
Didn't I see you over at Garden Web, too?

I just posted something last night I think might make you curious to learn more. Why don't you give it a look and see if you think it's worth discussing any areas where you might feel a little unsure of yourself? I promise you can do much better than the AV soil if you're willing to look at things with an open mind. I can also explain why plants that are normally bog plants don't do well in containers in a 'boggy' soil, which has to do with the type of root tissue they form in situ (where they naturally occur) vs in containers. Leaves tend to get a little 'brittle' because the plant is unable to move enough water upward to keep the leaves fully hydrated, and that can be cured as well, but it takes a little understanding about how to build a soil that creates a root environment that doesn't impair root function or metabolism. Nearly all problems that arise with houseplants originate in the root zone. Keeping roots happy is a requirement if the rest of the plant is to be happy. Bagged soils, even soils labeled as 'specialty soils', like AV or cactus soils, usually hold too much water o provide a healthy root environment. Their biggest asset is that they are convenient; and you'll be surprised to learn you can make your own healthy soils for less than the cost of heavier (more water-retentive) soils like Miracle-Gro, Jungle grow, and others.

Anyway ...... the link: http://davesgarden.com/community/forums/t/1226030/

Take care. I'm sure I'll be seeing you around. ;-)

Al