Daily care and tips for Topsoil & Growing Media

When should you change the potting mix for a houseplant?

Repotting with fresh substrate is recommended every 1 to 2 years, ideally in spring when the plant enters its active growth phase. Signs that indicate it's time for a change include roots visible at the surface or substrate that has compacted and does not retain water well'Our transparent, perforated nursery pots make it easy to inspect the roots before taking any action.

How can I tell if the growing medium is suitable for my plant?

A suitable growing medium should dry out thoroughly within a few days to a week without staying waterlogged for longer, indicating 'a good balance between drainage and water retention. If water remains on the surface for several hours after 'watering, the mix is too compact and should be lightened with perlite or coarse sand. Each botanical family has its own requirements, from aroids to succulents.

Where can I buy high-quality potting soil or growing medium?

Plant and Stories offers a selection of potting soils and growing media chosen for their quality and practicality, tailored to the specific needs of each family of indoor plants'. Each product is carefully packaged for fast, secure delivery right to your door. The range includes everything from all-purpose mixes to specialist blends for aroids, Calatheas, and succulents.

Everything you need to know about Topsoil & Growing Media

What is the difference between potting soil and growing medium?

Potting soil refers to a standard organic mixture, often based on peat or compost, while growing medium encompasses any plant-growing medium, including mineral mixes such as volcanic rock or perlite. For indoor plants, the term growing medium is generally used because these mixes combine several materials to optimize drainage and water retention. Choosing the right growing medium depends directly on the root requirements of each species.

Why is substrate drainage so important?

A poorly draining growing medium retains w'ater around the roots and encourages the growth of fungi that cause root rot. Mixes enriched with perlite, pozzolana or clay pebbles allow excess w'ater to drain away quickly while retaining the necessary moisture. This is the number one factor for success with sensitive species such as Hoyas or cacti.

Can a poor-quality substrate make a plant sick?

Yes, an unsuitable growing medium is o'ne of the most common causes of decline in indoor plants, well ahead of occasional watering mistakes. A mix that is too compact suffocates the roots and prevents the gas exchange necessary for their development. Tailoring the growing medium to each botanical genus remains the best way to prevent these problems in the long term.

Topsoil & Growing Media

Potting soil and growing media: the foundation for healthy growth

The right pot alone is not enough to ensure a plant's health: the growing medium nourishes the roots and regulates moisture every day. Our potting soils and growing media are formulated to meet the specific needs of each botanical family, from aroids such as Monstera and Philodendron to succulents that require excellent drainage. Each blend combines aeration, controlled water retention, and nutrients to support long-lasting root growth.

Choosing your growing medium: criteria and compatibility

Texture, drainage, and nutrient content vary considerably between species: Hoya need a very airy mix, while Calathea prefer a growing medium that retains more moisture. Choosing the wrong potting soil is one of the leading causes of root rot, well ahead of the occasional overwatering.

Our potting soils and growing media available online

Explore our full range of carefully selected potting soils and growing media, chosen for their quality and effectiveness and suited to aroids, flowering plants such as Anthurium, and the most delicate varieties. Each bag is carefully packed for fast, secure delivery. Our potting soils and growing media give your plants the best possible start.

For more information, read our complete guide: Potting soil vs. growing medium: which should you choose for your plants?.

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