Indoor plants have become increasingly popular both to add aesthetic appeal as well as offering a range of physical and mental health benefits. These versatile green companions can instantly transform any living space into a vibrant, refreshing environment.
The above paragraph may not describe how your plants are growing, and regular flushing of your potting mix may be one thing that might help improve the growth of your plants.
The Importance of Flushing
Regular flushing improves the integrity of the potting mix. Plants need a toilet and deposit their waste within the potting mix. These root exudates, unused fertiliser salts, stale air, microbial activity and waste can accumulate over time and affect the integrity of the potting mix.
The combination of any of the above can negatively affect the integrity of the potting mix by changing its physical and chemical properties. This may cause the potting mix to become soggy, hold too much water changing the pH, affecting nutrient absorption, and may cause damage to root systems.Â
Flooding your pots for a length of time you are removing excess build up by thoroughly wetting the potting mix, drawing in fresh air and allowing sufficient water to flow through the potting mix so that an abundance of water flows out the bottom of the pots. Improving moisture retention and increasing air flow, creating an environment for good root growth which in turn can improve the growth and overall health of your plants.
The Benefits of Regular Flushing
Regularly flushing your indoor plant's potting mix offers several advantages:
Helps to keep plants growing: Water is required for photosynthesis (growth). Having a good supply of water is important for efficient photosynthesis.
Helps to remove excess salts: Over time, salts can build up in potting mix due to fertilisers and minerals in the water.
Improves the pH of the potting mix: Nutrient absorption is affected if the potting mix becomes too acidic or too alkaline.
Prevents the build-up of harmful substances: If there are any harmful substances in the potting mix, such as chemicals or disease pathogens, flushing the mix can help to remove them.
It can decrease waterlogging: Overwatering can lead to waterlogged soil, which can suffocate plant roots and lead to root rot. Flushing the mix with water can help to improve drainage and prevent waterlogging.
Refreshing the Mix: Over time, organic matter in potting mix can break down, and the mix can become compacted. Flushing the mix with water can help to refresh it and improve its structure, making it more conducive to plant growth
Happy watering.
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