How to Use Less Potting Soil in Your Window Planter While Staying Plastic-Free

Window planters are an excellent way to bring nature indoors, while also making your home look stunning. Although these planters come in different sizes and shapes, they often require a lot of potting soil to fill them adequately. However, you can reduce the amount of potting soil you use and eliminate plastic waste by incorporating the following tips into your window planter gardening routine.

Choose a Smaller Planter

The first step you can take is to choose a smaller window planter. The bigger the planter, the more potting soil it requires, and the more space it will take up. Besides, smaller planters are easier to maintain and more convenient to move around. Opting for a smaller window planter also means you will use fewer resources hence reducing your carbon footprint.

Use Recycled Materials

Another way to cut down on plastic use and reduce the amount of potting soil you need is to make use of recycled materials. For example, instead of buying a new plastic window planter, you could make your own planter using recycled or upcycled materials. You could use old cans or jars or construct a planter box from reclaimed wood. The possibilities are endless, so you can get creative with what you have on hand.

Layer the Base

When it comes to filling your window planter, the soil at the bottom tends to get compressed over time, which can lead to more soil usage. To avoid this, add a layer of rocks or pebbles at the bottom of your planter. This not only encourages better drainage but also helps to aerate the soil, and reduce the amount of soil you need in your window planter.

Use Compost

Another way to use less potting soil in your window planter is to incorporate high-quality compost into the soil. Compost contains valuable plant nutrients that can be used in place of potting soil, reducing the amount needed. Additionally, using compost also helps to reduce the amount of waste in landfills by repurposing organic waste to help your plants grow.

Choose the Right Plants

The plant species you choose can also have an impact on the amount of potting soil you need. Opt for plants that have shallow root systems or prefer a more compact soil environment. Succulents, herbs, and some annuals are good examples of plants that grow well in smaller pots and require less soil. By choosing the right plants, not only will you save soil, but you will also make it easier to care for your plants.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, conserving soil and reducing plastic waste is not only good for the planet but also good for your wallet. By incorporating the above tips into your window planter routine, you can make a significant impact in minimizing your carbon footprint while bringing bright and lively plants into your home.