Substrates

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Substratum

What is a substrate and why is it important?

Substrate is the medium in which plants grow, providing the nutrients, air, and water retention necessary for their development. Unlike common garden soil, substrates are specifically formulated to enhance the growth of different types of plants, from flowers to urban gardens and houseplants. Having a good substrate not only helps maintain plant vigor but also improves drainage and prevents compaction, key factors for healthy growth.

Types of Substrates and Their Uses

Choosing the right substrate depends on your plants' needs and the type of project you want to undertake. Here are some common types of substrates and their main applications:

Universal substrate: ideal for most indoor and outdoor plants, this substrate provides a balanced mix of nutrients and good moisture retention.

Urban garden substrate: Formulated with a high content of organic matter, this substrate provides the optimal environment for fruit and vegetable crops, helping to obtain quality harvests.

Substrate for cacti and succulents: with a more sandy texture and excellent drainage, it prevents excess moisture, which is key for these species.

How to buy the best substrate

Selecting the right substrate is essential to the success of any gardening project. At Brikum, we offer a wide range of quality substrates, designed to meet the specific needs of each type of plant. If you have any questions, our team of experts is here to advise you and help you make the right choice. Improve your plants' growth with the right substrate and discover how to achieve a healthy, vibrant garden.

Advantages of the universal substrate

Choosing a universal substrate has several advantages, especially if you have different types of plants and prefer a practical and economical solution:

  • Versatility: It is suitable for most plants, such as flowers, small shrubs, and indoor and outdoor plants.
  • Moisture retention: Its components allow the plant to receive water constantly without compacting the substrate.
  • Efficient drainage: incorporate elements such as perlite or sand to avoid excess water, preventing root problems.
  • Easy to use: As it is an already balanced mix, it does not require any additional additives to provide the basic nutrients.

For which plants is the universal substrate ideal?

Universal substrate is suitable for ornamental plants, flowering plants, indoor plants such as pothos and ficus, and some outdoor species that don't have very specific soil requirements. However, for plants with more specific needs, such as cacti, succulents, or vegetable plants, it's advisable to opt for a specialized substrate.

At Brikum, we offer high-quality universal substrate, ready to enhance your plants' growth and maintain a vibrant garden. If you're looking for a practical option for caring for your garden or indoor plants, universal substrate is a reliable and effective choice.

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Preguntas frecuentes sobre Substrates

What exactly does a universal substrate mix contain?

Basically, a universal potting mix aims to mimic the conditions of ideal fertile soil. The mix typically consists of blonde and black peat, which provide body and water retention, combined with coconut fiber for lightness and aeration, and composted plant material. The best potting mixes add perlite to ensure drainage and usually include a base NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) fertilizer that feeds the plant during its first month of life.

When should you change the potting mix in your flowerpots?

The soil becomes depleted. Over time, the substrate loses nutrients and its structure collapses, becoming compacted. Ideally, you should replace the universal potting mix approximately every two years, or sooner if you notice that when watering, the water runs off without soaking in, or the soil is very hard. If a complete repotting is difficult due to the size of the plant, you can remove the top layer (a few centimeters) and refill with fresh, new potting mix each spring.

Is this substrate suitable for making seed trays?

It's possible, but with some caveats. Universal potting mix sometimes contains pieces of bark or fiber that are a bit too large for a tiny seed. If you're going to use it, we recommend sifting it a little with your hands to make it finer. However, for very delicate seeds, there are specific, gentler mixes available; but for vigorous vegetables or homegrown cuttings, universal potting mix will work perfectly well.

Will the substrate be spoiled if I have half a bag left over?

It doesn't expire like yogurt, but it can lose quality if you neglect it. The main enemy of open potting mix is ​​extreme dryness. If you have leftover mix, seal the bag as tightly as possible with tape or string and store it in the shade. If, when you use it again, you notice that the universal potting mix is ​​very dry and repels water, gradually moisten it by kneading it before putting it in the pot to restore its properties.

Do I need to fertilize immediately after adding the new substrate?

It's not necessary, and in fact, we don't recommend it. The vast majority of universal potting mixes we sell come pre-fertilized with enough nutrients for about 4 to 6 weeks. If you add extra fertilizer at that point, you risk saturating the roots with salts and burning them. Wait that month and a half, and then, yes, begin your liquid or granular fertilization routine to maintain the potting mix's fertility.