The Dirt on Soil

Soil is an extraordinary and complex substance. It is made up of air, minerals, organic matter, water, and countless living organisms. Forming at the Earth’s surface, soil exists in many different types and textures. As the thin, outermost layer of the planet’s crust, soil is essential to life—much like our own skin. Without it, plants, animals, and humans could not survive.

Unlike dirt, which is lifeless, soil is alive. It is full of interactions happening every moment. Soil provides habitat for an immense variety of organisms, most of them invertebrates and microscopic life forms that make up the majority of living things on Earth. It also plays a critical role in purifying water and recycling nutrients, including carbon, allowing these resources to be reused again and again. For plants, soil offers physical support, moisture, and access to essential nutrients.

As a gardener, making your own soil mixes is both simple and rewarding. Homemade blends are more economical and allow you to tailor the mix to the specific needs of different plants. Once your mix is prepared, lightly moisten it before using it for seeds or transplants to ensure even hydration.

We encourage the use of coco coir instead of peat moss, as coco coir is sustainably produced and avoids the environmental damage caused by peat mining. If a coco-based mix becomes slightly acidic, you can add dolomite lime to help balance the pH.

When reusing pots, trays, or flats for seedlings, proper cleaning is essential. Wash containers thoroughly, then rinse them in a solution of one part chlorine bleach to ten parts water. This step helps eliminate plant disease microorganisms that could harm young, sensitive seedlings.