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Soil Database

20 soil types — drainage, water retention, pros, cons, and best plants.

20 soil types

Acidic soil mix

Low pH mix for acid-preferring ornamentals and edibles.

Moderate drainagepH 4.55.5

Alkaline soil mix

Higher pH for lime-tolerant plants.

Good drainagepH 78

Bonsai soil mix

Akadama, pumice, and lava rock blend for fine root control.

Excellent drainagepH 5.56.5

Cactus mix

Specialty mix with sand, perlite, and minimal organic matter.

Very fast drainagepH 67.5

Citrus mix

Slightly acidic mix formulated for citrus roots.

Excellent drainagepH 5.56.5

Clay soil

Nutrient-rich but compacts easily when wet.

Poor drainagepH 67.5

Compost-enriched soil

High organic matter for fertility and soil biology.

Good drainagepH 67.5

Loamy soil

Ideal all-purpose garden soil with balanced texture.

Good drainagepH 67

Native soil blend

Mimics local conditions for low-maintenance landscapes.

Varies drainagepH 5.57.5

Orchid bark mix

Airflow around roots is critical for epiphytic orchids.

Excellent drainagepH 5.56.5

Palm potting mix

Resists compaction in containers.

Excellent drainagepH 67

Peat-based mix

Holds moisture with naturally acidic pH.

Moderate drainagepH 4.56

Potting mix

Sterile lightweight mix for pots and planters.

Good drainagepH 5.56.5

Raised bed mix

Blend of topsoil, compost, and aeration materials.

Good drainagepH 67

Rose garden soil

Deep, fertile beds for repeat-blooming roses.

Good drainagepH 66.8

Sandy soil

Light soil that warms quickly and drains fast.

Excellent drainagepH 5.57

Seed starting mix

Low fertility fine texture for germination.

Good drainagepH 5.56.5

Silt soil

Fertile but can crust when dry.

Moderate drainagepH 67

Succulent mix

Prevents root rot in wet climates.

Very fast drainagepH 67

Vegetable garden soil

Nutrient-rich beds with good tilth for edibles.

Good drainagepH 67