Question 1

Do I really need to prepare soil for container gardening, or can I just buy ready-made potting mix?

Accepted Answer

Ready-made mixes can work, but a basic DIY mix gives you better control over drainage and quality. It also becomes cheaper once you have multiple pots and you can tweak it for different plants.

Question 2

What's the difference between garden soil and potting mix—can't I just use soil from my backyard?

Accepted Answer

Garden soil often compacts in containers, drains poorly, and may carry weed seeds or disease. Potting mixes are lighter, hold moisture without staying soggy, and keep air pockets so roots can breathe.

Question 3

What is cocopeat and why is it so commonly recommended in India?

Accepted Answer

Cocopeat is the fine coir dust from coconut husks, sold as a compressed brick that expands when soaked. It improves moisture-holding while keeping the mix airy, which is exactly what container plants need.

Question 4

How do I know if my soil pH is wrong, and what can I do about it?

Accepted Answer

If plants yellow despite feeding or look stunted, pH may be blocking nutrient uptake. Most vegetables do well around pH 6.0–7.0—use a simple pH kit and adjust gradually with lime (to raise) or sulfur/compost (to lower).

Question 5

What’s a reliable basic ratio for cocopeat, compost/vermicompost, and soil?

Accepted Answer

A dependable starting point for most Indian container gardening is 40% cocopeat, 30% sieved soil (or more cocopeat if you’re going soilless), and 30% compost/vermicompost with 10–20% drainage material as needed.

Question 6

Should I sterilize soil before using it? If yes, how?

Accepted Answer

Sterilize only plain garden soil (not cocopeat/compost) if it’s from an unknown source or you’ve had recurring pests/disease. Small batches can be baked on a tray and cooled fully before mixing, or solar-sterilized in peak summer.

Soil Preparation: Building the Foundation for a Thriving Garden

Soil Preparation: Building the Foundation for a Thriving Garden