When caring for plants, it’s important to use the right soil. Many people assume that all soils are the same, but that’s not always the case.
Potting soil is specifically designed for potted plants, while garden dirt is made for plants planted in the ground. So, can you mix dirt with potting soil?
You shouldn’t mix dirt with potting soil because they are made for different purposes. Potting soil is lighter and has more nutrients, while dirt is heavier and doesn’t have as many nutrients. However, there are some circumstances where mixing the two soils can help like improving drainage, and adding weight to pots but must be done in a certain way.
What is Potting Soil?
Potting soil is a type of soil specifically formulated for use in containers and pots. It is lighter in weight than garden soil, making it easier to work with, and it also contains ingredients that help promote plant growth.
While potting soil can be used on its own, many gardeners choose to mix it with dirt to create a custom blend that meets their specific needs.
What is Dirt?
Dirt is a type of soil made up of organic matter, minerals, and other materials. It is heavier than potting soil and does not contain the same nutrients and ingredients that promote plant growth.
For this reason, it is not recommended to use dirt on its own for potted plants. However, it can be used in conjunction with potting soil to create a custom blend.
Why Mixing Dirt With Potting Soil May Not be Good
Pests and Diseases
One of the main reasons you shouldn’t mix dirt with potting soil is that dirt can introduce pests and diseases into your potting mix. If you’re using garden soil that contains these pathogens, they can easily infect your potted plants.
They can also spread to other plants in your home, which can cause serious problems.
Weed Seeds
Another reason why you shouldn’t mix dirt with potting soil is that dirt often contains weed seeds. These weed seeds can germinate in your potting mix and quickly take over.
Not only will this make it difficult to care for your plants, but it can also be a huge nuisance. If you’re using potting soil free of weed seeds, mixing it with dirt can contaminate it and cause problems down the road.
When To Mix Potting Soil With Dirt
There are some circumstances where you may need to mix potting soil with dirt. They include:
Transplanting a Plant From the Ground into a Pot
One common gardening task is transplanting a plant from the ground to a pot. While this can be done with just potting soil, there are also situations when mixing potting soil with dirt can be beneficial.
The potting soil will be lighter and more aerated than the dirt, which will help the plant’s roots establish themselves more quickly in the new environment.
In addition, potting soil typically contains nutrients that can help a plant recover from the stress of transplantation. However, it is important to use a potting mix appropriate for the type of plant being transplanted.
For example, cacti and succulents require a sandy potting mix, while most other plants prefer a loam-based mix. Using the wrong potting mix can cause problems ranging from under-watering to over-watering, so it is always best to consult with a gardening expert before transplanting a plant.
Improving Drainage in Pots
Potting soil is designed to drain well, but sometimes it can drain too well. If you live in an area with high rainfall or water your plants too frequently, the potting mix can become waterlogged and cause problems for the plant.
To improve drainage, you can mix in a small amount of dirt to help absorb excess moisture. By adding dirt to the potting soil, gardeners can create a more porous mixture that will allow water to flow through more easily.
Just be sure not to add too much, as it can make it difficult for the roots to get the oxygen they need.
Adding Weight to Pots and Containers
Another reason to mix potting soil with dirt is to add weight to pots and containers. This can be especially important for tall or top-heavy plants at risk of tipping over.
By adding a layer of dirt to the pot, you can help anchor the plant and prevent it from toppling over. Just be sure to use a light layer of dirt, as too much can weigh down the plant and make it difficult to grow.
Area Has Sandy Soil
Additionally, if you’re trying to grow plants in an area with very sandy soil, adding dirt to the potting soil can help the plants get the nutrients they need. Sandy soil is notoriously difficult to grow in, as it doesn’t retain nutrients well.
By adding a layer of dirt to the potting mix, you can help the plants get the nutrition they need to thrive. Avoid adding too much, as it can make the potting mix too dense and difficult for the roots to penetrate.
How To Mix Potting Soil With Dirt in 3 Steps
If you’ve decided to mix potting soil with dirt, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. They include:
1. First, it’s important to use the right ratio of potting soil to dirt. A good rule of thumb is to use two parts of potting soil for every part of dirt. This will ensure that the potting mix is aerated and lightweight while still providing the plant with its nutrients.
2. Second, mix the potting soil and dirt thoroughly before transplanting a plant. This will help prevent any problems that might arise from having two different types of soil in one pot.
3. Finally, when mixing potting soil with dirt, it’s important to use gloves and a mask to protect yourself from the dust. Inhaling dirt can be harmful to your health, so it’s best to take precautions when handling it.
Take Away
If you have been asking yourself, “Can you mix dirt with potting soil?” the answer is yes! Mixing potting soil with dirt can be beneficial for various reasons, including improving drainage, adding weight to pots and containers, and helping plants get the nutrients they need.
Use the right ratio of potting soil to dirt and mix the two thoroughly before transplanting a plant. And always take precautions when handling dirt, such as wearing gloves and a mask to avoid inhaling it.
