What is the Aroid Soil Builder Kit and what does it include?
The Aroid Soil Builder Kit is a DIY mix kit with 4 x 5L bags of Orchiata orchid bark (9–12mm), coco coir chips (12–18mm), super coarse perlite, and pumice (4–20mm). It's not pre-mixed—it's a customizable set for making up to 20L of chunky, breathable aroid mix.
What kinds of plants is this kit best for?
It’s ideal for aroids and tropicals like Monstera, Philodendron, Anthurium, Alocasia, Pothos, Scindapsus, and many orchids and bromeliads. Use indoors or outdoors—just adjust ratios for humidity, airflow, and watering habits.
How do I mix the Aroid Soil Builder Kit?
Start with a bark-forward base—roughly 5 parts bark, 2 parts coir, 2 parts perlite/pumice. For wet homes or low light, keep it chunky. For dry homes or thirsty plants, increase coir. For seedlings, use slightly finer components.
Can I add compost, worm castings, or charcoal?
Yes—optional extras like compost, worm castings, or charcoal can be added in small amounts to improve nutrients or microbial life. Just keep the structure airy and avoid making the mix too dense or wet-holding.
What do the individual components do?
Orchiata bark provides chunk and airflow. Coco coir chips hold moisture. Perlite boosts drainage and lightens the mix. Pumice adds mineral stability and long-term aeration. All components are pre-washed and buffered where needed.
Do I need a drainage hole when using this mix?
Yes—always use pots with drainage holes. Even a chunky mix like this can cause root rot if water can't escape. Avoid compacting the mix when potting up; let it stay light and breathable.
How often should I water plants in this mix?
There’s no set schedule—water when the top few centimeters are dry and the pot feels lighter. Chunky mixes dry faster than standard potting soil, which helps reduce overwatering issues.
Does this mix help prevent root rot?
Yes—its structure promotes airflow and drainage, which lowers rot risk. That said, overwatering can still cause issues even in airy substrates. Monitor your plant and adjust as needed.
Why is my mix drying too fast or staying wet too long?
If it dries too fast, try increasing coir or adding a bit of compost. If it stays wet, you may need more bark, perlite, or pumice—or better light and airflow. Always check drainage holes aren’t blocked.
Is this mix suitable for semi-hydro, LECA, or terrariums?
It’s not designed for full semi-hydro setups or closed terrariums. It’s a chunky substrate, not a hydroponic medium, and works best in breathable containers with normal airflow.
Can it help with fungus gnats?
Chunky mixes reduce soggy top layers, which can deter gnats. Let the surface dry between waterings. You can also top-dress with coarse sand or mineral barriers if gnats are persistent.
Do I need to rinse or sterilise the components?
No sterilising needed for most growers. Bark and coir chips are ready to use; perlite may benefit from a quick rinse to reduce dust. Wear a mask if you're sensitive when mixing.
Can I reuse this mix when repotting?
Yes—just remove old roots and refresh with some new bark, perlite, or pumice to restore structure. Repot every 2–3 years, or sooner if the mix gets soggy, compacted, or breaks down.
Is this kit safe for pets and beginner-friendly?
Yes—but don’t let pets chew the components, and avoid inhaling perlite dust. For beginners, stick with airy ratios, use drainage pots, and water only when the pot feels dry—not by habit.
