Plant-Specific Guidelines | Elm Dirt Plant Care Guide
Customized advice for using Elm Dirt products on different plant types
Plant Categories
Houseplants
Healthy houseplants thriving with Elm Dirt products
Indoor plants have specific needs that differ from outdoor plants due to their controlled environment. Here are guidelines for keeping your houseplants thriving with Elm Dirt products.
Pothos, Philodendron & Other Trailing Plants
Watering: Allow soil to dry out partially between waterings. These plants prefer to dry slightly than be overwatered.
Light: Moderate to bright indirect light. Can tolerate lower light conditions but growth will be slower.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Plant Juice: Dilute 2 oz per gallon, apply every 2-3 weeks
- Ancient Soil: Mix 20% with potting soil when repotting
- Worm Castings: Add as top dressing quarterly
Special Tips: Prune occasionally to promote bushier growth. Vines can be pruned and propagated in water or directly in soil with Ancient Soil.
Peace Lily, Spathiphyllum
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Will droop dramatically when thirsty but recovers quickly.
Light: Low to moderate indirect light. Can adapt to lower light but will bloom best with brighter indirect light.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Plant Juice: Dilute 2 oz per gallon, apply monthly
- Bloom Juice: Dilute 2 oz per gallon, apply when flower spathes begin to form
- Ancient Soil: Mix 20% with potting soil when repotting
Special Tips: Peace lilies appreciate increased humidity. For more flowers, use Bloom Juice when you see the first signs of flower spathes emerging.
Snake Plant, Sansevieria
Watering: Allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Prone to root rot if overwatered.
Light: Adaptable to most light conditions from low to bright indirect. Growth rate increases with more light.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Plant Juice: Dilute 2 oz per gallon, apply sparingly every 6-8 weeks
- Ancient Soil: Mix 15% with cactus/succulent soil when repotting
Special Tips: Snake plants prefer to be somewhat root-bound. Only repot when absolutely necessary, and use a well-draining mix with Ancient Soil.
Fiddle Leaf Fig, Ficus lyrata
Watering: Allow top 2 inches of soil to dry between waterings. Consistent watering schedule is important.
Light: Bright indirect light, preferably near an east or west-facing window. Some direct morning sun is beneficial.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Plant Juice: Dilute 2 oz per gallon, apply every 3-4 weeks during growing season
- Ancient Soil: Mix 20% with well-draining potting soil when repotting
- Worm Castings: Add as top dressing twice yearly
Special Tips: Fiddle leaf figs dislike being moved and can drop leaves when stressed. Choose a good location and try to avoid relocating them.
African Violet
Watering: Water from the bottom when soil is dry to the touch. Avoid getting water on the leaves.
Light: Bright indirect light, preferably near an east or west-facing window. Avoid direct sun.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Bloom Juice: Dilute 1 oz per gallon (half strength), apply every 3-4 weeks
- Bloomin' Soil: Apply as a thin top dressing every 2-3 months
- Ancient Soil: Mix 15% with African violet potting mix when repotting
Special Tips: African violets prefer slightly acidic soil and higher humidity. Keep them in small pots as they bloom best when slightly root-bound.
General Houseplant Tips
Most houseplants benefit from occasional cleaning of their leaves to remove dust and allow better light absorption. Use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe down leaves. Avoid using leaf shine products, as they can clog the leaf pores.
Always adjust watering based on your home's specific conditions. Factors like humidity, temperature, and airflow can significantly affect how quickly your plants use water.
Vegetables & Herbs
Thriving vegetable garden using Elm Dirt products
Growing edible plants requires special attention to soil health and nutrient balance. Here are guidelines for maximizing your harvest with Elm Dirt products.
Tomatoes
Watering: Consistent moisture is key, especially when fruiting. Water deeply at the base of plant.
Light: Full sun, at least 6-8 hours daily.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Plant Juice: Dilute 2 oz per gallon, apply weekly during early growth
- Bloom Juice: Dilute 2 oz per gallon, apply weekly once flowers begin to form
- Ancient Soil: Mix 20% with garden soil before planting
- Bloomin' Soil: Apply as top dressing when first flowers appear
Special Tips: Prune suckers (the shoots that grow in the crotch between two branches) to direct energy to fruit production rather than foliage.
Leafy Greens (Lettuce, Spinach, Kale)
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Shallow roots dry out quickly.
Light: Partial shade in hot climates, full sun in cooler areas.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Plant Juice: Dilute 2 oz per gallon, apply weekly
- Ancient Soil: Mix 20% with garden soil before planting
- Worm Castings: Apply as top dressing monthly
Special Tips: Harvest outer leaves first, allowing center to continue growing. This "cut and come again" method extends your harvest period.
Herbs (Basil, Cilantro, Parsley, Mint)
Watering: Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Most herbs dislike soggy roots.
Light: Full sun to partial shade, depending on the herb and climate.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Plant Juice: Dilute 1.5 oz per gallon, apply every 2 weeks
- Ancient Soil: Mix 15% with well-draining potting mix
- Worm Castings: Light top dressing every 2 months
Special Tips: Regular harvesting promotes bushier growth. For basil, pinch off flower buds to encourage leaf production.
Edible Plant Safety
All Elm Dirt products are 100% organic and safe to use on edible plants. There's no need to wait between application and harvest, though it's always good practice to wash all produce thoroughly before consumption.
Flowers & Ornamentals
Vibrant flowers thriving with Elm Dirt products
Beautiful blooms require specific nutrients at the right time. Here's how to use Elm Dirt products to maximize flowering and keep ornamentals looking their best.
Roses
Watering: Deep watering at the base of plants, keeping foliage dry. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Light: Full sun, minimum 6 hours daily for best blooms.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Bloom Juice: Dilute 3 oz per gallon, apply every 2 weeks during blooming season
- Plant Juice: Dilute 2 oz per gallon, apply monthly during growing season
- Bloomin' Soil: Apply as 1-inch top dressing in early spring and mid-summer
- Ancient Soil: Mix 20% with rose soil when planting or as yearly top dressing
Special Tips: Prune in late winter/early spring before new growth appears. Remove spent blooms regularly to encourage more flowers.
Hydrangeas
Watering: Consistent moisture, especially during bloom season. Water deeply at base.
Light: Morning sun with afternoon shade in warmer climates; more sun in cooler areas.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Bloom Juice: Dilute 2 oz per gallon, apply every 3 weeks during growing season
- Plant Juice: Dilute 2 oz per gallon, apply in early spring to promote strong growth
- Ancient Soil: Mix 20% with garden soil when planting
- Bloomin' Soil: Add as 1-inch top dressing in spring
Special Tips: Flower color in some hydrangeas is affected by soil pH. Our products maintain a neutral pH but won't dramatically change flower color.
Annual Flowers (Petunias, Marigolds, Zinnias)
Watering: Consistent moisture, especially in containers which dry out quickly.
Light: Most annuals prefer full sun, some tolerate partial shade.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Bloom Juice: Dilute 2 oz per gallon, apply weekly for continuous blooms
- Bloomin' Soil: Mix into soil before planting and as monthly top dressing
- Plant Juice: Dilute 2 oz per gallon, apply when first planting to establish roots
- Worm Castings: Mix into potting soil when planting containers
Special Tips: Remove spent flowers (deadheading) regularly to encourage more blooms and prevent seed formation.
Maximizing Blooms
For most flowering plants, the transition from Elm Dirt Plant Juice to Bloom Juice as flower buds begin to appear will maximize blooming. Continue with Bloom Juice throughout the flowering season for continuous, vibrant blooms.
Trees & Shrubs
Trees and shrubs flourishing with Elm Dirt treatments
Woody plants have different needs than herbaceous plants. Here's how to use Elm Dirt products to establish strong roots and promote healthy growth in trees and shrubs.
Newly Planted Trees & Shrubs
Watering: Deep, infrequent watering to encourage deep root growth. Keep consistently moist but not soggy for first year.
Light: Varies by species - ensure proper placement for sun requirements.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Plant Juice: Dilute 3 oz per gallon, apply monthly during growing season
- Ancient Soil: Mix 20% with native soil when planting
- Worm Castings: Mix into planting hole to improve soil structure
Special Tips: Create a water basin around the drip line to ensure water reaches the root zone. Apply mulch in a ring around trunk (not touching bark) to retain moisture.
Fruit Trees (Apple, Pear, Cherry)
Watering: Consistent moisture, especially during fruit development. Allow to dry slightly between waterings.
Light: Full sun, minimum 6-8 hours daily.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Plant Juice: Dilute 3 oz per gallon, apply monthly in early spring
- Bloom Juice: Dilute 3 oz per gallon, apply every 2 weeks during bloom period
- Ancient Soil: Apply as 2-inch top dressing around drip line yearly
- Bloomin' Soil: Apply as top dressing when flower buds begin to form
Special Tips: Apply nutrients around the drip line, not at the trunk. This is where most active roots are located.
Flowering Shrubs (Azalea, Rhododendron, Lilac)
Watering: Consistent moisture, especially before and during bloom period.
Light: Most need partial sun to full sun, though some (like azaleas) prefer dappled shade.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Plant Juice: Dilute 2 oz per gallon, apply monthly after pruning until buds form
- Bloom Juice: Dilute 2 oz per gallon, apply every 2 weeks when flower buds begin forming
- Bloomin' Soil: Apply as top dressing in early spring before buds form
- Ancient Soil: Mix 20% with native soil when planting and as yearly top dressing
Special Tips: Prune immediately after flowering to avoid cutting off next year's flower buds which form on old wood in many shrubs.
Tree Feeding Tips
Unlike smaller plants, trees benefit most when nutrients are applied at the drip line (the outer edge of the tree's canopy) where feeder roots are concentrated, not at the trunk. For large trees, apply Elm Dirt products in a ring around the drip line.
Lawns & Grasses
Healthy lawn maintained with Elm Dirt products
A lush, green lawn requires consistent care and the right nutrients. Here's how to use Elm Dirt products for a beautiful lawn without harsh chemicals.
Cool Season Grasses (Kentucky Bluegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass)
Watering: Deep, infrequent watering (1-1.5 inches per week) to encourage deep roots.
Mowing: Keep at 2.5-3.5 inches tall, never removing more than 1/3 of grass height at once.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Spring Revive: Apply in early spring (February-April) to boost growth after winter
- Summer Strength: Apply in late spring/early summer (May-June) to prepare for heat stress
- Fall Rally: Apply in late summer/early fall (August-September) to recover from summer stress
- Winter Prep: Apply in fall (October-November) to strengthen roots for winter
Special Tips: For cool-season grasses, fall is the primary growing season and the best time for overseeding. Reduce watering in summer when grass naturally slows growth.
Warm Season Grasses (Bermuda, Zoysia, St. Augustine)
Watering: Deep watering when signs of drought stress appear, typically 1 inch per week.
Mowing: Keep at appropriate height for variety (1-2 inches for Bermuda, 1-2.5 inches for Zoysia, 2-4 inches for St. Augustine).
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Spring Revive: Apply when grass begins to green up after winter dormancy
- Summer Strength: Apply in early summer to support active growth season
- Fall Rally: Apply in early fall to extend growing season
- Winter Prep: Apply in late fall before dormancy to strengthen roots
Special Tips: For warm-season grasses, summer is the primary growing season. Reduce fertilization in fall as grass prepares for dormancy.
New Lawn Establishment (Seed or Sod)
Watering: Keep consistently moist until established. New seed needs light, frequent watering; new sod needs deeper, daily watering.
Mowing: Wait until new grass reaches 3-4 inches before first mow. Set mower at highest setting.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Ancient Soil: Mix into top 2-3 inches of soil before seeding or laying sod
- Plant Juice: Dilute 2 oz per gallon, apply for 2 weeks during seed germination or sod installation
- Seasonal Lawn Care: Begin regular program when lawn is fully established (6-8 weeks for sod, 8-12 weeks for seed)
Special Tips: Prepare soil thoroughly before seeding or laying sod. Remove debris, break up compacted areas, and ensure good drainage.
Natural Weed Control
The best defense against weeds is a thick, healthy lawn. Our Elm Dirt Lawn Care program promotes dense turf growth that naturally crowds out weeds. Unlike chemical weed killers, our products build soil health while being safe for children, pets, and beneficial insects.
Succulents & Cacti
Thriving succulents with Elm Dirt specialized care
Succulents and cacti have unique needs compared to other plants. Here's how to use Elm Dirt products to keep these water-wise plants healthy and thriving.
Desert Cacti (Barrel Cactus, Prickly Pear, Saguaro)
Watering: Allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Water deeply but infrequently.
Light: Full sun to bright indirect light. Most need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Plant Juice: Dilute 1 oz per gallon (half strength), apply very sparingly (every 2-3 months) during growing season
- Ancient Soil: Mix 10-15% with cactus soil when planting or repotting
- Worm Castings: Add sparingly as top dressing once yearly
Special Tips: Desert cacti need very well-draining soil. Handle with care using thick gloves or wrap newspaper around spiny varieties.
Leaf Succulents (Echeveria, Haworthia, Sedum)
Watering: Allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Water thoroughly when soil is dry.
Light: Bright indirect light to partial sun. Some varieties will burn in intense direct sun.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Plant Juice: Dilute 1 oz per gallon (half strength), apply every 6-8 weeks during active growth
- Ancient Soil: Mix 15% with succulent soil when planting
- Bloom Juice: Dilute 1 oz per gallon, apply sparingly when flower stalks begin to form
Special Tips: Many succulents have a dormant period during which they need even less water and no fertilizer. Watch for seasonal growth patterns.
Succulent Arrangements & Terrariums
Watering: Water sparingly. In enclosed terrariums, water creates humidity that can be reabsorbed.
Light: Bright indirect light. Avoid direct sun which can create a greenhouse effect in glass containers.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Plant Juice: Dilute 1 oz per gallon (half strength), apply every 2-3 months
- Ancient Soil: Mix 10% with cactus/succulent soil when planting
- Worm Castings: Add thin layer when setting up arrangement
Special Tips: Choose succulents with similar care requirements for arrangements. Open terrariums are better for most succulents than fully enclosed ones.
Less is More
With succulents and cacti, less care is often better than too much attention. These plants have evolved to survive in harsh conditions and typically suffer more from overwatering and over-fertilizing than from neglect. Always use Elm Dirt products at reduced strength for these plants.
Tropical Plants
Tropical plants flourishing with Elm Dirt products
Tropical plants bring lush foliage and exotic beauty to homes and gardens. Here's how to use Elm Dirt products to keep these humidity-loving plants thriving.
Monstera, Philodendron, Pothos (Aroids)
Watering: Allow top inch of soil to dry between waterings. More water during active growth, less in winter.
Light: Bright indirect light. Can tolerate some lower light but growth will be slower.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Plant Juice: Dilute 2 oz per gallon, apply every 2-3 weeks during growing season
- Ancient Soil: Mix 20% with aroid-specific potting mix when repotting
- Worm Castings: Apply as top dressing quarterly
Special Tips: Most aroids appreciate higher humidity. Consider grouping plants together, using a humidifier, or placing on pebble trays with water.
Orchids (Phalaenopsis, Dendrobium, Oncidium)
Watering: Water thoroughly when potting medium is dry. Allow excellent drainage.
Light: Bright indirect light. Most common orchids burn in direct sun.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Bloom Juice: Dilute 1 oz per gallon (half strength), apply every 2-3 weeks during growing season
- Plant Juice: Dilute 1 oz per gallon (half strength), apply monthly when not blooming
- Worm Castings: Add small amount when repotting (mixed with orchid medium)
Special Tips: Most orchids grow on trees in nature, not in soil. They need excellent air circulation around roots. Use special orchid pots and growing medium.
Citrus Trees (Lemon, Lime, Orange)
Watering: Allow top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Consistent moisture is important.
Light: Full sun, minimum 6-8 hours daily. Move outdoor container plants indoors for winter in cold climates.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Plant Juice: Dilute 2 oz per gallon, apply every 2-3 weeks during growing season
- Bloom Juice: Dilute 2 oz per gallon, apply when flower buds appear
- Ancient Soil: Mix 20% with citrus-specific potting mix when planting
- Bloomin' Soil: Apply as top dressing when flower buds begin to form
Special Tips: Citrus trees need good air circulation to prevent disease. If kept indoors during winter, provide as much light as possible and maintain humidity.
Humidity Matters
Most tropical plants come from regions with 60-80% humidity, far higher than most homes. Beyond proper watering and fertilizing with Elm Dirt products, increasing humidity around your tropical plants can dramatically improve their health. Consider grouping plants together, using humidity trays, or running a humidifier.
Seedlings & Propagation
Strong seedling development with Elm Dirt products
Starting plants from seeds or cuttings requires special care. Here's how to use Elm Dirt products to ensure successful germination and strong early growth.
Seed Starting
Watering: Keep consistently moist but not soggy. Water from below when possible.
Light: Bright indirect light after germination. Some seeds need darkness to germinate, then light after sprouting.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Ancient Soil: Mix 10% with seed starting mix before planting
- Worm Castings: Mix very small amount (5%) with seed starting medium
- Plant Juice: Dilute 1 oz per gallon (half strength), apply while planting seeds to increase and speed up seed germination
Special Tips: Use sterile seed starting mix to prevent damping off disease. Provide good air circulation with a small fan on low setting.
Stem Cuttings Propagation
Watering: If rooting in water, change water every few days. If rooting in soil, keep consistently moist until established.
Light: Bright indirect light. Direct sun can stress cuttings before they establish roots.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Plant Juice: For water propagation: add 2-3 drops per cup of water; For soil propagation: dilute 1 oz per gallon (half strength), apply after 2-3 weeks
- Ancient Soil: For soil propagation: mix 10% with regular potting soil
- Worm Castings: For soil propagation: mix small amount (5%) with potting medium
Special Tips: Create a mini greenhouse effect by covering newly planted cuttings with clear plastic (not touching leaves). Remove covering once new growth appears.
Transplanting Seedlings
Watering: Water thoroughly after transplanting. Keep consistently moist for first week.
Light: Bright light but protect from intense midday sun for first few days.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Ancient Soil: Mix 15% with potting soil in new containers
- Plant Juice: Dilute 1.5 oz per gallon, apply 3-5 days after transplanting
- Worm Castings: Mix small amount into new potting soil or use as light top dressing
Special Tips: "Harden off" seedlings started indoors by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days before planting in garden.
Division Propagation (Perennials, Bulbs, Rhizomes)
Watering: Water thoroughly after division and keep soil consistently moist until new growth appears.
Light: Provide appropriate light for the specific plant type, but avoid harsh conditions initially.
Elm Dirt Recommendations:
- Plant Juice: Dilute 2 oz per gallon, apply 5-7 days after division
- Ancient Soil: Mix 20% with garden soil or potting mix in the new planting location
- Worm Castings: Add to planting hole to improve soil structure and promote root development
Special Tips: Divide most perennials in spring or fall when plants are not under heat stress. Ensure each division has adequate roots and shoots.
Gentle Start
Young plants and newly propagated plants are more sensitive than established ones. Always use Elm Dirt products at half-strength for seedlings and new cuttings, gradually increasing to full strength as plants mature. This gentle approach promotes healthy growth without overwhelming delicate root systems.
General Plant Care Guidelines
Understanding Product Purposes
Plant Juice
Our signature all-purpose liquid fertilizer is rich in microbes and nutrients that support overall plant health and growth. Use for:
- Promoting strong root development
- Encouraging leafy, vegetative growth
- Strengthening stems and branches
- Enhancing drought tolerance
- Improving nutrient uptake
Bloom Juice
Specifically formulated to support flowering and fruiting stages of plant growth. Use for:
- Enhancing flower production
- Supporting fruit development
- Improving bloom size and color
- Extending flowering period
- Strengthening stems to support heavy blooms
Ancient Soil
Our premium soil amendment contains worm castings and other beneficial ingredients. Use for:
- Improving soil structure
- Enhancing water retention while maintaining drainage
- Adding beneficial microorganisms to soil
- Providing slow-release nutrients
- Creating a living soil ecosystem
Bloomin' Soil
Specialized soil amendment with nutrients focused on flower and fruit production. Use for:
- Supporting plants during flowering and fruiting stages
- Providing phosphorus, calcium, and other bloom-essential nutrients
- Extending the blooming phase
- Improving fruit and flower quality
- Enriching soil with bloom-specific beneficial organisms
Worm Castings
Pure, organic earthworm castings that serve as nature's perfect plant food. Use for:
- Adding immediately available nutrients to soil
- Improving soil structure and water retention
- Introducing beneficial microbes to soil
- Providing gentle, burn-free fertilization
- Supporting seedlings and sensitive plants
Seasonal Application Tips
Spring Care (March-May)
As plants enter active growth phase, focus on:
- Applying Plant Juice to all plants to support new growth
- Top dressing with Ancient Soil as plants emerge from dormancy
- Beginning Lawn Care program with Spring Revive
- Starting seeds and cuttings with gentle applications of Plant Juice
- Applying Bloom Juice to early-flowering plants as buds form
Summer Care (June-August)
During peak growing season and heat, focus on:
- Regular applications of Plant Juice for vegetative plants
- Consistent Bloom Juice for flowering and fruiting plants
- Lawn Care with Summer Strength to combat heat stress
- Extra attention to container plants, which dry out quickly
- Light top dressing with Worm Castings for stressed plants
Fall Care (September-November)
As growth slows and plants prepare for dormancy, focus on:
- Reduced feeding for most plants as they slow growth
- Fall Rally for lawns to recover from summer stress
- Winter Prep for lawns before frost
- Top dressing perennials with Ancient Soil before winter
- Final applications of Plant Juice for evergreen plants
Winter Care (December-February)
During dormancy and indoor growing season, focus on:
- Reduced feeding for outdoor dormant plants
- Continued care for indoor plants with less frequent applications
- Preparing seed starting mixes with Ancient Soil and Worm Castings
- Planning next season's garden and lawn care
- Special attention to winter-flowering houseplants with Bloom Juice
The Elm Dirt Difference
All Elm Dirt products work together to create a living soil ecosystem that supports plant health naturally. Unlike synthetic fertilizers that feed only the plant, our products feed the soil and the beneficial microorganisms that support plant health. This creates stronger, more resilient plants that need less water, resist pests and diseases better, and produce more vibrant flowers and tastier fruits and vegetables.
Still Have Questions?
Our plant care experts are ready to help with any specific questions about using Elm Dirt products with your plants.
Send us photos of your plants and a description of your growing conditions, and we'll provide personalized recommendations.
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