Find out what leaching means for your houseplants. A quick explanation of what it means to leach, and why you want to do it for a healthy indoor garden.
#HealthyHouseplants #HouseplantCare #IndoorGardening #LeachingSoil #PlantCareTips #RootRotPrevention #OrganicGardening #SoilHealth #GardeningTips
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We are starting a new series: houseplant terminology. In each of these videos, we will do a quick drill down on houseplant terms. This way, if you hear or read a term and want to quickly understand what it means, you can check out one of these videos.
A lot of the terms we cover are also included in my book Indoor Gardening the Organic Way. I do sell autographed copies of the book on my website, and I’ll put a link below.
Today’s term is “leach” or “leaching.” When you read or hear that term, you’ll know that it means to rinse houseplant soil. It can also refer to outdoor plant soil, whether in the ground or in containers, but for purposes of houseplants, it applies to the soil in the pot.
To leach soil, you put a lot of water through it in order to rinse out certain substances that you don’t want in the soil. One of the main things you’re removing is salt buildup.
Salt buildup in the soil can break down plant roots and, if high enough, can eventually cause root rot. Salts are more common in certain waters depending on your region, and they are present in all fertilizers, even organic ones, though the proportion of salts is lower in organic fertilizers and much higher in chemical fertilizers.
So, if you suspect a buildup of unwanted substances in your soil, you would rinse the soil, or “leach” the soil.
That’s what leaching is all about!
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Houseplant Terminology: Leach or Leaching
What does “leach” or “leaching” mean in houseplant care?
Leaching refers to rinsing houseplant soil by running a lot of water through it. This helps to remove certain substances, especially salt buildup, from the soil.
Why is leaching necessary for houseplants?
Leaching is important because salt buildup in the soil can damage the roots of your houseplants. Over time, this can cause root rot and harm the plant’s overall health.
Can leaching be used for outdoor plants as well?
Yes, leaching can be done for outdoor plant soil, both in the ground or in containers, but for houseplants, it specifically applies to potting soil.
How does salt buildup occur in houseplant soil?
Salt buildup happens due to certain types of water used for watering and through the use of fertilizers. All fertilizers contain salts, though organic fertilizers have a lower proportion compared to chemical fertilizers.
What should I do if I suspect salt buildup in my houseplant soil?
If you suspect salt buildup in your soil, you should leach the soil by running water through it to rinse out the unwanted substances. This will help prevent root damage and keep your plants healthy.
Where can I learn more about leaching and other houseplant care tips?
You can watch our videos on houseplant care, including leaching, or check out my book Indoor Gardening the Organic Way for more tips. You can find autographed copies on my website.
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