It’s All About the Soil
A significant difference between Monrovia plants and the competition is our high quality soil. Plants grown in nutrient-rich soils are healthier and have stronger root systems. Now Monrovia packaged soil mixes and fertilizers are available for home gardeners (and in larger quantities for landscapers).
But not all soils and fertilizers are the same. Here are a few things you should know about natural and organic ingredients vs. synthetics.
- Did you know that some ingredients in soil mixes actually compete with the plant for nitrogen in the soil? If your mix contains too much sawdust or fresh bark, for instance, you will likely see the leaves of your plants yellowing due to a nitrogen deficiency. Our proprietary soil mixes are carefully blended with just the right ingredients so they don’t compete with the plant for nutrients.
- Porosity of the soil mix is critical, to ensure the right level of moisture and drainage to keep the roots as healthy as possible. So be sure to use the right product for the situation – use potting soil for container plants, for example.
- Most commercial potting soil that is formulated for outdoor use should not be used indoors. But Monrovia Organics Potting Soil can be used in all containers, indoors or outside. Our rich soil helps the plant withstand fluctuating temperature and humidity.
- You may have noticed that soluble fertilizers – like the liquid mixes – must be applied every week or two. The reason is that plants are only able to utilize seven or eight percent of the nutrients per application. So they need to be reapplied quite frequently which can be costly and tedious. Conversely, organic and natural fertilizers only need to be applied a couple times a year, because as they break down, they continue to feed the roots.
- Synthetic fertilizers are petrochemical-based, and thus are priced 10 – 20 percent higher than organics. So not only are organic products better for your garden and better for the environment…. they’re easier on your wallet, too.
