Our plants have varying requirements in terms of potting compost pH, nutrient content and texture; we have therefore designed our product range to provide potting composts suitable for the main types of plants. Our wide range of potting soils offers a solution for the specific needs of every conceivable plant variety, but when purchasing potting soil, do pay attention to the pH value as well. In horticulture, soil acidity is primarily expressed in terms of pH.
The chemical properties of all soils can be measured on the pH scale. The pH (pondus Hydrogenii, hydrogen ion extractor) a dimensionless chemical quantity that characterises the chemical nature (acidity or alkalinity) of a given solution.
The scale ranges from 0 to 14; a value of 7 indicates neutral pH, whilst lower values indicate acidity and higher values indicate alkalinity. A tenfold change in acidity or alkalinity corresponds to a change of 1 pH unit.
Some 40–50 years ago, based on the reasoning outlined above, a classification system was established comprising three simpler groups of potting compost:
A = a potting compost with a slightly acidic pH (pH = 5.9–6.4) for plants that do not tolerate lime.
B = pH-neutral (pH = 6.5–7), general-purpose potting compost.
C = a potting compost with a slightly alkaline pH (pH = 7–7.5) for lime-loving plants.
This 3-letter classification is not accurate, as it does not fully cover the plants’ requirements (for example, a Rhododendron flowers require potting compost with a pH of 3.8–4.5 requires something for which, according to the list, there isn’t even a suitable potting compost). For this very reason, it is advisable to pay closer attention to the pH value indicated on the front or back of the potting compost packaging, and to check the requirements of the plant varieties. If we bear this in mind as well, our plants will thrive and develop beautifully.
It is extremely important to us that flowers and plants are provided with the right, high-quality potting compost, which is why we state the exact pH value on the front of every potting compost bag, rather than the ABC classification. We mix specialised potting compost for unusual plants, and we also state on our product pages exactly what each mixture contains.
We know that this will make our homes and gardens more beautiful for all of us.
Most potting soils and soil types are typically neutral in pH (6.0–7.5). If you have a plant that requires a more acidic potting soil, the soil’s pH value with sulphate-based fertilisers can be reduced (fertilisers containing potassium sulphate, ammonium sulphate or magnesium sulphate), or with a fibrous peat block.
FLORIMO® potting compost It is available to plant lovers in a wide range of varieties. If you are unsure which one to choose, feel free to ask the sales assistant, who will be able to offer you further advice. If possible, buy from a specialist shop or a retailer with expert staff.
We’ve been in the business for 30 years, so you can count on us for the long term. We stock the widest range of Hungarian potting composts, so you’re sure to find the right one for you.
Read our blog to find out more about planting, looking after plants, and how FLORIMO can help® to make your garden even more beautiful.
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