Easy Potting Soil Recipe

1/17/2021

Start your seeds in this DIY mix!

There are so many options in the world of potting soil; seed starting mix, extended release fertilizer blend, veggie garden mix...the list goes on! I have found a simple recipe that works well in a pot indoors or to start my seeds in the spring. This recipe is not only easy, but it will same some money too (and what homesteader isn't thrifty??).

You will find many recipes online for seed starting mix or potting soil. My version contains just three sustainable ingredients.

Coconut Coir: This will be the bulk of your mix. Coconut coir is a by-product of the coconut processing industry. I avoided using peat moss, which is not a sustainable choice since much of it is mined from peat bogs that damages its delicate environment.

These ground up coconut husks make a great choice for planting as they hold water and drain very well. I have used coconut coir all by itself to transplant tender seedlings and had great success. They come in dense bricks that you soak with about 1-2 quarts of water to hydrate and break a part.

Perlite/Vermiculite: These ingredients can be interchanged depending on what you have on hand. Both help to aerate the soil and hold water, with the perlite doing a tad bit better at aerating. For this particular mix, I don't notice a difference but if your compost seems to be extra dense then maybe you would want to use perlite.

Compost: Where would we be without compost?! This ingredient adds nutrients to your mix, giving those seedlings a great start. If you keep a compost pile then you likely have this available for free. Just be certain it is well composted so you don't accidentally burn your plants.

DIY Seed Starting Potting Soil

Ingredients:

2 quarts Coconut Coir
1 quart perlite/vermiculite
1 quart compost

Instructions:

The day before I rehydrate a brick of coconut coir using 1-2 quarts of water. You want to be able to easily crumble it in your hands. One brick comes to approximately 3 quarts when fully hydrated.
In a large container, combine all three ingredients and mix with your hands. You will end up with a beautiful, rich mix that works well anywhere you would use the store bought stuff!

Now grab some seeds and get your garden growing! What is your favorite potting mix?