Potting Mix Calculator

Create custom potting mixes or use our pre-made recipes for different plant types

Choose Your Mix

Ingredient Guide

Peat Moss

Excellent moisture retention, acidic pH

Moisture retentionAcidic (pH 3.5-4.5)Lightweight
Cost: $12/cu ft

Coconut Coir

Sustainable peat alternative, neutral pH

Moisture retentionNeutral pHSustainable
Cost: $10/cu ft

Perlite

Volcanic glass for drainage and aeration

DrainageAerationLightweight
Cost: $20/cu ft

Vermiculite

Expanded mineral for moisture retention

Moisture retentionNutrient retentionAeration
Cost: $25/cu ft

Compost

Organic matter providing nutrients

NutrientsBeneficial microbesImproves structure
Cost: $5/cu ft

Coarse Sand

Improves drainage, adds weight

DrainageWeightStructure
Cost: $3/cu ft

Bark (Fir/Pine)

Chunky material for aeration

AerationDrainageLong-lasting
Cost: $8/cu ft

Sphagnum Moss

Long-fiber moss for moisture

Moisture retentionAntibacterialAcidic
Cost: $15/cu ft

Mixing Tips

  • Always wear gloves when handling potting mix ingredients
  • Mix ingredients thoroughly in a large container or wheelbarrow
  • Moisten the mix slightly before use to reduce dust
  • Store unused mix in an airtight container to prevent contamination
  • Consider adding slow-release fertilizer for long-term nutrition
  • Test pH if growing acid-loving or alkaline-preferring plants

pH Considerations

Different plants prefer different pH levels:

  • Acid-loving plants (pH 4.5-6.0): Azaleas, blueberries, camellias - use more peat moss or sulfur
  • Neutral pH plants (pH 6.0-7.0): Most vegetables and houseplants - use coir or balanced mixes
  • Alkaline-tolerant (pH 7.0-8.0): Lavender, clematis, asparagus - add lime or use less peat