As soon as the first spring-like temperatures are reached and the sun comes out more often, many hobby gardeners go to hardware stores, garden centers and discounters to get potting soil. After all, the dreary sight of winter should be replaced with colorful flowers and plants as quickly as possible.
» Reading tip: Peat-free soil - components explained
What actually sounds so uncomplicated is far from being that easy. As with many other things, there are endless varieties and suppliers of potting soil. The differences in quality are also very large and it is not always possible to determine good or bad by the price. It is hardly surprising that amateurs sometimes reach their limits here. Last year in April there was a very interesting report on the ZDF program Volle Kanne. Here garden expert Elmar Mai explains how good soil differs from bad and what must be considered when buying. Because it doesn't always contain what is written on it.
Peat is not a good ingredient in potting soil, Elmar Mai agrees. He therefore recommends coconut soil (e.g. available here), as it is more fibrous and therefore does not dry out as quickly. However, this soil must not be used alone, but should be mixed with other high-quality soil.