3 Simple Soil Mixes to Speed up Root Growth for Monstera and Philodendron

Looking for a great soil mix for your aroid plants like monsteras and philodendrons?
I've used this mix for years with my monsteras. I've avoided root rot and have seen incredible growth in my plants. I list everything you'll need, provide some reasoning behind my choices, and give you the percentages you'll need to use for a successful soil recipe.
-potting soil
-perlite
-orchid bark
-horticultural charcoal
-earthworm castings
contact me on instagram @kill_this_plant
/ kill_this_plant
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*Products I Recommend:
Thank you for continuing to support this channel. These are affiliate links.
By purchasing products through these links I will receive a commission.
Amazon USA
Horticultural Charcoal: amzn.to/2RGas4s
Earthworm Castings: amzn.to/3ttgNgM
Perlite: amzn.to/3bezMVV
Orchid Bark: amzn.to/33qVVvX
Potting soil: amzn.to/2QVUFOX
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Amazon Canada
Horticultural Charcoal: (still searching for a fairly priced online options for Canadians)
Earthworm Castings: amzn.to/3yKZoE3
Perlite: amzn.to/3i10Oo8
Orchid Bark: amzn.to/2SBUlFk
Potting soil: amzn.to/3i24XIq

[@starwalker3488]

Fantastically clear video. I'm repotting my Monstera tomorrow, and this has been the most informative video I've found. Very interesting to include orchid bark - fortunately I have some, so will definitely try it in tomorrow's mix. Many thanks

[@KillThisPlant]

Glad it was helpful. Good luck with your potting!

[@starwalker3488]

@@KillThisPlant Hi, I'm back again a year later,. Last year I used your mix (option 2 with the orchid bark) to repot my young monstera and it LOVED it! A year and 7 new leaves later, and it's time to repot it again with stakes this time as it's grown so well. So I came back to refresh my memory with your mix and just to report back how brilliant the mix works. Thanks again from the UK.

[@KillThisPlant]

@@starwalker3488 Wow! That's amazing I'm glad everything worked out for you. Welcome back. Thanks so much for the update.

[@mc.km.555]

I second this!!

[@KillThisPlant]

Next time I'll wear a lab coat so I can feel more like a scientist.

[@renzgabrielgonzales5562]

Yes!!!!

[@sicrye9116]

BREAKING BAD.

[@vickykent353]

You would look extremely scientific with a lab coat on. Go for it. Or ..... Just do it!!

[@oneflower6166]

I've been using perlite for a while now and never thought to wet it first to keep from breathing in the dust - great tip!!

[@vaenili]

i've read too much about plants going into shock after repotting, so i was really nervous to repot my monstera considering how little i knew about soil mixing. i used your 3rd potting mix and my baby is thriiiving!!! thank you so much for sharing!

[@KillThisPlant]

That's great to hear!

[@9672justemor]

So you don’t need to use all 3

[@juliangrimm835]

Finally found the dang “tips” button. Thanks for your response to a question I had on a different video of yours and for posting this one with your soil mix break down. I just got a wee bb philodendron genevievianum and am wanting to give it a good start with a good soil mix and I have all the ingredients you used to make these mixes. Excited to pot it tomorrow. Thank you for all the plant info you put out. :-)

[@KillThisPlant]

Thank you so much! Hope your plant grows well

[@noora7773]

I'm so happy that now I can use my orchid bark for something else too, because I have given up with orchids...they were too hard for me. I've moved so maybe the different conditions could potentially suit for them better but I'll stick with other easier plants (monsteras, syngoniums, peace lilys, sansevieria and croton) for a while... I hope my plant parenting skills have been upgraded too but I get too depressed from failures so trying to keep green leaves growing is a much more suitable challenge for me. I've more humidity and knowledge of how to get the soil right. Previously I used to get an inexpensive soil bag from the store and not add anything to it. Mixing the soil is like cooking...you try to get the best ingredients and then get the proportions right🙂

[@trusttheyouinverse]

I love that you compared this to cooking!! It gives an interesting perspective on how to think about it! 😊

[@Angie-ci1lp]

You’re the best👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽to break down MEASUREMENTS of mixture without a LOT OF TALKING! 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@ness8193]

Thank you for your clear instructions and for being a cool guy to listen to! Your videos are exactly what I've been looking for on KZbin.

[@shiny-dust]

thank you for this! i like the range of recipes, from simplest to most complex. i admit i kept being amazed at how little potting soil was in each recipe! but i’m a beginner soil-amender so i JUST started experimenting with adding a little pumice to my potting mix. i will be a little bolder next time-and maybe pick up some bark as well! thanks again 🙂

[@KillThisPlant]

Good luck with your mixing!

[@FABCASTLE]

It was time to repot one of my monsteras and I knew this was THE PLACE to check for a great tip!! Thanks, Lee, you're lovely and awesome 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@rosatejeda6654]

Just repotted my monstera using the second option! Fingers crossed ❤️😁 Love how you made this so simple and easy, you’ve got you a new subscriber.

[@wentingyang4065]

Thanks for this informative video!! I am having my first monstera and I LOVE this series. I love that you are providing different options in the video so I can have a simpler option but also can consider the premium mix!! I’ll go along repotting the plant and finger crossed

[@MikaelaCowles]

Thank you for making the most straightforward video on this I've found. My first monstera is coming on Saturday and I've been researching for close to an hour now to find a mix that won't kill it but I can also make with the supplies I have on hand. Thank you for making my life easier haha

[@mc.km.555]

I found this video super helpful! Thank you!

[@Cravenn5]

Thank you🌱so much for the “wet perlite” info as If I I’ve haven’t worn a mask enough.🌿💚🔥🔥

[@astoldbydory]

I have been looking all over for a video on soil mix specifically for Monstera. Super beginner here working with my 2nd plant ever !!!

[@KillThisPlant]

hope your plant likes its new mix!

[@kellyberggren2007]

Great job.! Never have done this before but am hungry to have these beautiful plants in my life. And I have one I bought at Walmart that is ready to propagate. So I cant wait to use what Ive learned! Thank you!

[@rattatoolie7253]

Man your channel is literally becoming my fav. I’ve been bindge watching your videos for 2 days now. Thank you for all of the incredibly helpful tips !!

[@courtneykueck5899]

This was a fantastic video! Super informative and easy to follow. Also, you made me laugh out loud. Thanks for soiling yourself for the benefit of us plant owners everywhere. 😂🌱

[@chunt8616]

Thank you for this video. I was having trouble and feeling stressed out about what to use when repotting my monstera. Thank you for being clear and concise.

[@KillThisPlant]

Youre welcome

[@ellaaurora]

i’ve been doing 1 part house plant potting soil, 1 part orchid bark, 1/2 part perlite and 1/8 part vermiculite just based on something i found online, and it’s been working fine, but next i will definitely try increasing the amount of perlite! love your videos 🌿

[@caitlynlloyd9488]

love your videos! thank you!

[@silmarlis9449]

Nice video bro, good tips and info, my knowledge grew after watching this. Thanks

[@KillThisPlant]

Thanks for leaving a comment! Appreciate it.

[@ayeshah.6234]

i’m repotting my baby monstera for the first time and this was so helpful! i have perlite and potting soil, so i’m making that mix.

[@KillThisPlant]

Awesome. I hope your plant will like the mix.

[@sunilatahir]

How your monstera doing?

[@ayeshah.6234]

@@sunilatahir doing great!

[@frodielocksmeka]

Thank you for your help...Newly proud plant momma to a Monstera named Xena❤️

[@chelseamahoney853]

I didn't realize how little soil compared to everything else I should be using! I think I need to repot my plants!

[@antoinettehill9333]

Genius tips ,wet the pearlite 😎 I like the big pieces of pearlite but i have a bunch of small ones and will have to make do with those.

[@BRZism]

I'm so new to plants, and this is absolutely helpful to see and follow! I'll definitely take one of these potting recipes for my monster when repotting for sure! Cheers!

[@KillThisPlant]

Glad it was helpful. Good luck with your repotting.

[@petecilione4166]

Good to know about the orchid mix or bark. Didn’t know that.

[@KillThisPlant]

Hope you find some!

[@petecilione4166]

@@KillThisPlant got some! One of our nurseries is having a garden show so I stocked up on supplies. Thanks again.

[@marquitathomas1619]

I just repotted a monstera I bout a few weeks ago. I did a mix of chuncky perlite, coco and a tropical soil mix. Oh and Orchard bark.

[@lbschangemylife]

I like that youre part of the perfect soil in the thumbnail.

[@Jayl__]

This is good to know! Instead of buying hard to find orchid bark and horticulture charcoal I can go to big box and pick up promix or use my existing perlite and soil combo. Thanks for sharing the various complexities! I’m from Canada too so this is great that you can share these products that I can likely find here. Only suggestion I have is cut the clips closer so that there isn’t so much dead transitions so the video is more tight. Please link the products as well at the bottom

[@KillThisPlant]

Thanks for the comment. I'll work on those transitions.

[@Jayl__]

@@KillThisPlant I meant tight* not right.

[@tonirichards7559]

I also use cacti mix.helps drainage.plants love it

[@KillThisPlant]

Great choice too!

[@roxannecox7861]

I'm going to separate my baby Monstera D. this weekend. I have six stems, I think 3 will be perfect. I bought all the ingredients for your premium mix, and I'm also putting in my ground-up eggshell, coffee ground, and banana peel mixture. Thank you so much for the great information and guidance!

[@KillThisPlant]

Great. Assuming this is for a potted plant I would avoid putting in those food based extras.

[@roxannecox7861]

@@KillThisPlant OK, thanks for the great advice!

[@jp-us9rq]

i just did perlite potting mix and peatmoss seems like their doing really good

[@KillThisPlant]

That's great!

[@Kevinmarra]

Good videos amigo! Keep going!

[@KillThisPlant]

Thanks!

[@terrymiller5181]

I mix premixed monstera mix with miracle grow moisture control mix about half and half works well so far

[@KillThisPlant]

Glad it's working. I've had issues with the moisture control soil in the past, but I think I used too much of it.

[@bibbatybobbityboo]

I'm really new, but I made a substrate with what I could find in town: a potting soil (1pt) + orchid mix (.75pt) (the bad one you warned about with the added fertilizer) + cacti mix (.5pt)... fingers crossed it doesn't kill the plants now.

[@indiawinbush8399]

thank u

[@1on1dogtrainingregan73]

I wish someone would talk about how humidity levels will effect effectiveness of diff soil types.

[@vickykent353]

pH levels for plants, too.

[@roxannecox7861]

Thanks for being such an important part of my plant journey! Would you recommend this mix for a Scindapsus too?

[@KillThisPlant]

@@roxannecox7861 I would recommend the same soil mixes.

[@jaydenventer4146]

I cannot stress how useful your videos are

[@pedrozfurlan]

Lovely video! I just have a little question, is it ok to use coconut husk instead of orchid bark? And are these soils mix used only of monsteras and philodendrons or could I use it in all my green plants? Thanks for thr attention! Have a nice one ! ✌🏽

[@isabellacristinarezendevie1640]

Hi!!! New plant mom here 😅 so, I bought a Monstera “Skeleton” at IKEA couple of weeks ago and yesterday I repoted it. I used a mix of “normal flower soil”, perlite and a little bit of tree bark, cause I couldn’t find the coconut bark or orchid bark. Is that ok?? I am a little bit nervous about the tree bark cause it is reaaaaally dry… thanks in advance for your help and for your videos!! You’re helping me a LOT! 💪🏼❤️

[@rdred8693]

Buy the big bags of perlite if you can. So much cheaper. Also, I have been adding decomposed bark, that I picked from the woods, to my mixes.

[@KillThisPlant]

Interesting! I wonder if you ever get insects tagging along. they'd probably help your soil.

[@ceciliatorres1882]

I FIOUND you a few weeks ago and have been watching your videos and learning some good tips on taking care of my indoor plants especially my Monstera Delisiosa. My question is: is there any specific situation to use each soil mix?

[@KillThisPlant]

Not really. Cost is the main thing. You have to also ensure you're watering at an appropriate frequency for your soil.

[@Confusedplanto]

Used this for my first monstera, a couple of philodendrons and pothos. Only problem I've come upon is when using moisture metre. It just reads it was dry but when I stick my finger in its definitely has moisture. 🤣

[@KillThisPlant]

Yeah! Moisture meters do not work with this soil.

[@sionjang9167]

Could I possibly substitute orchid bark with pine bark?

[@devbachu7072]

Great beo

[@katieflorse5961]

1 yr later &..."I soiled myself" is still funny af to me lol 😆

[@KillThisPlant]

me too.

[@JennaB0benna]

Well I definitely went light on the perlite cause I was running out, now my damn plant is in water while I figure out when I can go get more perlite lol 😮

[@brittanyxox27]

This is a great video, thanks for all the information! Do you have recommendations for a one mix-fits-all solution, lol? I'm hoping to find a potting mix for my Monstera that doesn't need support!

[@KillThisPlant]

Not specifically. Fox Farm Ocean Forest is a reliable one. Also any "tropical plant mix" will be better. You can also put your plant in regular potting soil and it will live. Just makes it easy to over water.

[@brittanyxox27]

That's what I'm noticing now; leaves are turning yellow with regular potting mix. I'll check out Fox farm-thanks again!

[@KillThisPlant]

@@brittanyxox27 thanks for the kind words. Best of luck.

[@mynameislisa2281]

Is it a bad idea to repot a Monstera Deliciosa in the fall. Thank you for the helpful video.

[@KillThisPlant]

Assuming the plant is indoors its fine.

[@Maxeats1]

@KillThisPlant are there any substitutes to orchid mix such as sphagnum moss or peat moss, stuff like that

[@rayikaikin]

i bought a few monstera i want to plant outdoors in a shady spot they were very root bound and i decided to pull them all apart and pot them up seperatly. i used some straight potting soil i bought yards of locally it is very well draining and they seem to be doing ok. i was planning to plant them right away but now i think ill leave them in the new pots in that spot until they get some good root growth again. do you have any tips for growing monstera outside in ground?

[@aishatida3087]

Can I create a mix of potting soil, perlite, orchid bark, and earthworm castings? Meaning is it okay to leave out the horticultural charcoal? If so, what percentage would you recommend?

[@sherrymeilana]

Which mix do you use? Or does it depend on what you have on hand?

[@tarantellalarouge7632]

I think that it is better to avoid peat because it is not sustainable, there is a "new thing" available now this is tree fern soil, especially in remplacement in sphagnum moss pole, it is not hydrophobic (and a little more expensive). I like to do my own mix, very close to option 3 with worm casting and charcoal because I like to do my own cooking, and I think that the more available "food" the more the plants can absorb . Also last tip, you can wear a mask and simmer the perlite to avoid putting to much perlite dust in your mix, specially if it is the end of the bag !

[@KillThisPlant]

Canada has a world class program for peat sustainability. @GardeningInCanada has a great video series on it. With other tree fiber options (tree fern, coco coir) you also have to consider how much water is needed to process it as well as the massive overseas shipping (carbon) costs. It does depend on where you live, something will have less of an environmental impact. I think the most important thing is to just buy less, and reuse what you can.

[@tarantellalarouge7632]

@@KillThisPlant thanks for your answer, sustainability is always important but more if we love plants and nature ! we don't want to do more damage (excuse my English I am French !) I love your work, videos, and humour, keep on going !

[@Shreeladebi]

Hi, I am new to indoor plants and learn a lot from you. What I am not clear about, and I've watched many channels on KZbin about indoor plants, is the pot size that should be used in proportion to the height. Could you please enlighten me?

[@KillThisPlant]

You're choosing pot size based on the size of the roots. Small roots, small pot. Big root mass, big pot. Just enough to fit snugly. I almost never look at the size of the plant or the size of the leaves. Always check the roots.

[@Shreeladebi]

Thanks a ton Lee.

[@DeepakSharma_91]

Bro i am from india and i loved your video ❤️🙏n explanation. I have a doubt when u talk about potting soil what does it mean ..is it special soil or just coco peat or u can say peat moss? And where are you from

[@KillThisPlant]

Thanks for the comment. I'm from Canada. Our labels read "potting soil" but most of it is peat based. So mostly peat. Some sphagnum peat moss, coir, and some compost mixed in.

[@DeepakSharma_91]

@@KillThisPlant okay bro..good... 👍

[@mcdeckar]

I've been using a mix of potting soil, perlite & orchid bark and find that I'm having fewer overwatering issues. How do you know when soil is too chunky? Sometimes water just flows straight through the container and I can't imagine it's retaining much moisture. I've been bottom watering those plants when possible but I don't always remember to take the time to do that.

[@mian4349]

Always funny lol

[@rezrider21]

could I add some charcoal to the monstera soil as well?

[@ashleyrodriguez7430]

So wet the perlite & than add the other dirt & mix

[@alyssa9854]

Thoughts on using sphagnum moss in your soil mix?

[@KillThisPlant]

Some people layer the top with moss to help them find out if the plant is dry or not. In terms of mixing it into your potting mix, I think there are less expensive things you can add to help retain moisture.

[@MsMusiqueManiaque]

What’s your opinion on miracle-go tropical mix? Isn’t it better then the classic potting mix for monsteras?

[@KillThisPlant]

I think on its own it's still not good enough. It is better than the normal indoor potting soil.

[@JordanKruegerJTK]

Do you ever use a portion of a succulent mix when you want a dryer or more arid composition? I’m trying it now with 1/3 potting soil, 1/3 perlite, 1/3 succulent mix but can’t tell if I like it. Seems to dry more quickly than I expected, especially after a few waterings.

[@KillThisPlant]

I have. Since I use large pieces of orchid bark I tend not to notice a huge difference

[@Jayl__]

Can I use this for anthuriums? I’m thinking of the promix perlite soil mix

[@KillThisPlant]

Anthuriums are not my specialty. But I think instead of potting soil, Cactus soil or peat would be better. Maybe peat in a lower percentage. I think the mix I showed would do ok though. Thanks for the question.

[@quki3]

So these are three different options for misters and philodendron? Or are they layers ? With the first being top and last being bottom Of pot? I love the idea of mixing my own potting soil. I think most potting soil won’t work well for shade living tropical plants.

[@KillThisPlant]

They are 3 separate suggestions for soil. You can use whatever fits your budget.

[@DavidRitko]

Dad jokes! Great for making life more amusing, and seeing the women in your lives ere roll!

[@mariasidiqi3880]

Hi Lee! Have you tried a moisture meter before? What are your thoughts on it? TY!

[@KillThisPlant]

I have. If you have a super chunky soil mix, they don't work. It will read as dry sometimes even a few hours later. They work well for some plants that may want a denser more soil retaining mix.

[@mariasidiqi3880]

I see! I’be become really scared of overwatering my plants and causing root rot, but it can be hard for me to tell if the bottom of the pot has moisture because it’s too deep!

[@KillThisPlant]

@@mariasidiqi3880 I get that! I recommend just using a chopstick to go all the way to the bottom of your plant so you can feel how wet it is. This should work until you have a better understanding of how fast your plant dries out.

[@lisamielke9648]

@killthisplant, is the 2 mixture the one best for re potting a monstera baby?

[@KillThisPlant]

They can all work for the various stages. However a chunkier mix will tend to be better for the roots.

[@riskzoner]

Think I'll use potting soil, perlite and worm castings. I may add some coconut choir too? What do you think of this? How much coconut choir do you think will be good to add in?

[@SarawakPollster]

hey buddy, we have similar philosophies for substrates/mixes... have you ever tried using Akadama as a perlite or pumice substitute?? It is also "stoney" in form but it tends to retain moisture for alot longer than pumice and perlite (which hardly retain moisture). It is quite a bit more acidic though (some plants may like that) so be wary of that. Some of the cool kids also like to add an inch top layer of spagnum moss at the top of the soil once potted for appearance and also ability to draw out water, but i think this may also encourage some decay/bacteria if things go south with the spag moss. Maybe charcoal top layer will do the trick of drawing moisture away from the soil without the risk of getting infection.

[@KillThisPlant]

I had seen some of that soil before but never looked into it further. I'll do some research. Thanks for letting me know. As for the top layer of moss I've been a bit skeptical as well. Especially considering how little water it would 'wick away' from the soil. I usually just go for terracotta if the size allows it (usually under 10"). Thanks for the comment. Appreciate it.

[@sandy_carpetsthesecond5013]

I wanna add some moss to my maidenshair fern pot but I'm still tryna figure out how to get the moss on the soil without making a mess

[@iDash68]

what are Ur thoughts on using pumice Vs perlite and what are the advantages of each?

[@KillThisPlant]

I've never personally used pumice. What I've heard is: pumice takes less energy to produce Pumice is more expensive Perlite is cheaper Perlite often rises to the top of your pot after a time.

[@vickykent353]

​@@KillThisPlant Perlite rising to the top is why I bought pumice. If perlite rises to the top, doesn't it make more sense to use pumice even if it is a bit more expensive?

[@laduchessewatts8449]

I am very new to soil amendments but trying to cultivate organically. Which method would suit me best..if any?

[@KillThisPlant]

That depends on what you define as organic. By organic do you mean "living". By organic do you mean you're looking to be environmentally conscious. For example Perlite is mined from a mineral, it's inorganic. Charcoal is made from burning living things, but charcoal is non-living. When thinking about organic soil I usually think it's high in things like kelp, Worm castings, bone meal, and other things high in micro organisms that will feed/fertilize your soil slowly over time. All soil is organic as it has microorganisms living inside it. If we are looking to be environmentally friendly. Are we avoiding things that have been treated with chemicals synthetically? Depending on where you live an organic label is usually reserved for food and may not have the same meaning for soil. I'm sure I haven't really answered your question. 😅 But I guess I mean to say "it depends"

[@fabiolaruiz3657]

🔥, this mix will work for a bird of paradise?

[@KillThisPlant]

I use it on mine! I just go with a bit more potting soil so I have to water it less frequently.

[@samanthadean7472]

Would this be the same mix for a mini monstera? Or are there certain adjustments that need to be made?

[@KillThisPlant]

I use an identical mix for mine. They do great.

[@fedor4655]

Thanks, my philodendron hasn't been taking up much water and I am suspecting root rot so this will help. I actually have other, unrepated plants suffering from root rot as well. Do you think this is a good way to help prevent root rot in any plant?

[@KillThisPlant]

If you're someone who over-waters, these soil mixes can be great. For some plants these mixes are not ideal. It really depends on the plant.

[@fedor4655]

@@KillThisPlant alright man, thank you. I'll look into it for the specific plants. You are a legend for responding so quickly :)

[@m4tthi3u]

Thank you. Can you clarify if the % you suggest are by weight or volume? I have a scale that I could use but if it's by volume I'll be completely off.

[@KillThisPlant]

Volume.

[@iamjaviervillegas]

Hey there.. So which of these three mixes did you use for your Deliciosa? I’ve had one for a while and it’s right next to an east-facing wind own but the plant does not want to fenestrate. It’s due for a repotting into a bigger pot so knowing which soil blend to use would be wonderful. Thanks!

[@KillThisPlant]

I use whatever I can afford/have at the time! I have various monstera in various mediums. It's more important to water them based on how chunky the soil is. Super well draining, more frequent watering. Think about what works for you and how much time you have.

[@vickykent353]

​Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!! I've been wondering which soil mixture to use when. So, correct me if I have misunderstood, please. I can use any of the 3 mixes for my Monsteras or Philodendrons. Which one I choose depends on how much time I have to to check for when to water. Is that correct? The chunkier the soil, the more often the plant will need to be watered. Also, as I understand it, the chunkier the soil, the better the root development will be?

[@lusidora]

Is it possible to get these measurements in parts instead of %?

[@veronicabrown3667]

I potted two rooted monstera cuttings before before I saw this video or knew that I should use perlite in their soil. Is it too late to add perlite to the soil now?

[@KillThisPlant]

You should probably wait until it's time to repot again.

[@s1esteve]

How often do you tend to water with the premium mix?

[@KillThisPlant]

Depends on the season, location, and size of the plant. Anywhere between 5 - 14 days.

[@wonderingraceful]

Hi! Would this work for a Monstera Adansonii? I have one that’s ready to be planted :)

[@KillThisPlant]

Yes, absolutely

[@Balopina]

Would this also work for money trees? Mine is getting yellow leaves for some reason. It was growing fine in this soil for a long time, so I don't know wtf is happening for the soil to take ages to dry now.

[@KillThisPlant]

Swap out the potting soil for cactus soil, maybe hold back on the orchid bark. Yes to perlite, probably optional for horticultural charcoal.

[@sumaiasultana3139]

We don't have any potting soil mix in our country. Can I use garden soil instead? Should I add coco peat in soil? What would be the substitute of potting soil you used and the ratios? Thank you

[@KillThisPlant]

In my country "indoor potting soil" is usually just a mix of peat based soil mixed with perlite and some compost. You can probably just mix them all together and eyeball it. Use a higher quantity of the other materials if the garden soil is more dense.

[@ericalangston5774]

Question…I’m using a potting soil, perlite, orchid bark mix and I notice that my monstera’s soil dries out pretty fast. I’m scared to underwater and to overwater 😢 how often are you watering with this mix?

[@bingdorst6929]

I wonder if you can add small pebbles on top of your soil will help. Also if your plant is in a drafty spot of your home, these are also factors besides just watering schedule. I’ve also seen others place their pot over a tray of water and pebbles. I’ve seen it used more for orchids but the concept can also apply here to keep the air around the plant humid. I personally just was gifted a monstera and have added coconut and wood fiber mix on top for longer water retention.

[@Bailey110489]

Hi Lee, what’s your thought about adding ADA Amazonia ver.2 as the water retaining media? It’s tiny soil balls ph is about 6, this substrate materials are rich in organic acids and nutrients, promoting the growth of aquatic plant roots. I’m receiving a small but expensy variegated monstera(only one leaf) next week,it’s currently sitting in just perlite it’s so small, I’m trying to work this out please help:)))

[@KillThisPlant]

I think in general good advice, with me knowing nothing about that soil, is to use what you're most comfortable with. As long as you understand that soil and the rates it retains and drains water you're in a better spot. I dont think its the best choice to start experimenting on something expensive. Experiment with it on your other plants first.

[@Bailey110489]

@@KillThisPlant really appreciate it man, the best.👍

[@sunilatahir]

Should we use perlite in soil if we live in hot humid environment?

[@KillThisPlant]

I'm not sure. You may have to do some testing

[@silvannamk8339]

What about vermiculite? The perlite I’ve bought lately from two different companies have been way too fine. Makes it feel like sand. Not sure when they changed it.

[@KillThisPlant]

Vermiculite tends to hold too much moisture, i would just skip the perlite and go for more orchid bark. or maybe pumice if its available to you.

[@silvannamk8339]

@@KillThisPlant thank you so much!!!! I’ll look for pumice.

[@citrus_bees]

I know this is an older video, but have you ever considered selling your own soil mixes? I'd love to just buy it premixed from you.

[@Truthnlovedailydiary]

Hello I just picked up a monster from a previous owner her cap nipped at one leaf and one is dark brown breaking should I cut off or wat should I do. Repot?

[@KillThisPlant]

I'm not sure repotting is the best option until you know what the roots are like. Do look at the roots to see what you're dealing with. Don't cut off a leave that still has green on it (unless you know its a fungal infection)

[@salluere]

I only got orchid bark that contains fertilizer. Should I better leave it out or can it still do the job? I also wondered if I could just pick out the big bark pieces by hand and throw them in.

[@KillThisPlant]

I think it might be wise to test it out on a plant that you can afford to lose. You do have to worry about your orchid bark & your potting soil both having fertilizer (over fertilizing). Especially for smaller plants.

[@salluere]

@@KillThisPlant thanks!

[@tnextreme]

Why have I not thought to wet my perlite to avoid breathing it all in!

[@tracyjohnson3596]

Where are the clear plastic bowls from please that you mix your compost in ? 🍀🌿🌱

[@KillThisPlant]

I think they were from Walmart. But I got them several years ago and haven't seen them since.

[@tracyjohnson3596]

@@KillThisPlant thankyou we dont have a walmart in england 😢

[@KillThisPlant]

@@tracyjohnson3596 keep a lookout at your local garden centres. I hope you find some. They've been so helpful.

[@tracyjohnson3596]

@@KillThisPlant thankyou for replying i will keep a look out at the garden centres 👏🏻🌱🌿🍀

[@plantypittsburgh]

I'm preparing for my monstera adansonii which is currently water propagating. The last is almost entirely brown, but roots are at about a half inch and another leaf is growing from the base/node. I'm worried the new leaf will get squished in its narrow propagation tube. Considering the new growth, should I attempt to plant in soil now or let it continue grow in water? Thanks!

[@KillThisPlant]

It's up to you. If you want to move it to a larger prop tube you can do that. I generally wait until the roots are at least 3inches and/or has secondary roots.

[@plantypittsburgh]

@@KillThisPlant thanks! It has secondary roots. They're all sort, but I see such conflicting info. I've been watching your soil videos in preparation. Thanks for the content and response!

[@theresadavidson4867]

My monstera has been repotted twice recently. Once as soon as I brought it home and a second time due to gnats. It’s small/medium. Pretty healthy. But now that I’ve seen this I’m concerned about the soil it’s in. It’s just in normal potting soil with a little bit of perlite. Think it’s worth a THIRD repot to correct it’s potting mix?

[@KillThisPlant]

If your plant has been doing fine and managing in it's current soil I don't want you to feel like you need to urgently repot it.

[@ceciliatorres1882]

I'm having a problem keeping my Monstera Adansonii's leaves green and big. They turn into half green and half crispy gray. Help!!!

[@KillThisPlant]

That sounds like it's a root or watering consistency issue.

[@beckythebealge]

I buy the same charcoal as you but it’s not nearly as fine. You must grind it in some sort of way