Ideal substrate for Araceae: components and advice

🌿 The components of a good substrate for Araceae

Araceae , such as Philodendrons, Anthuriums , Alocasias and Monstera , are among the most popular rare tropical plants in France and Europe . To ensure their growth and flourishing, a suitable tropical substrate is essential. Here is a complete guide to understanding and choosing the right components, validated by Green and White Plants expertise.

1⃣ Why is a specific substrate essential for Araceae?

Tropical indoor plants need a substrate that mimics their natural environment: airy , slightly acidic , and rich in organic matter .

The right substrate for Araceae must:

• Provide good air circulation 💨

• Retain moisture without saturation 💧

• Feed the plant sustainably 🌱

• Limit the risks of fungi or diseases ❌

✨ Green and White Plants Tip: A well-designed tropical substrate ensures 80% of your growing success!

2⃣ Coconut fiber 🧈: light and ecological base

Coconut fiber is a good substitute for peat, with a texture that is perfect for Araceae roots .

Its strengths:

• Light and well-draining ✨

• Good water retention 💧

• Ideal pH (5.5 - 6.5)

• Environmentally friendly 🌼

🔹 Use buffered coconut fiber to avoid deficiencies.

3⃣ Perlite ⚡: for optimal drainage

This expanded volcanic rock is perfect for aerating your tropical substrate and promoting root development.

Benefits :

• Lightens the substrate without drying it out ✨

• Avoid excess water 💧

• Preserves the roots of Araceae ❤️

🔹 Recommended dosage: 20-30% of the total mixture.

4⃣ Coconut shine 🌲: long-lasting aeration

Coconut chips simulate tropical forest litter and provide structure to the substrate.

Benefits:

• Coarse structure for aeration ⚡

• Durable and stable 📆

• Promotes aerial roots 🌳

🔹 Choose the particle size according to the size of your tropical plant.

5⃣ Activated charcoal ♻️: natural barrier

Essential for sensitive Araceae, activated carbon maintains a clean and healthy substrate .

Utility :

• Absorbs toxins ❌

• Limits diseases 🩸

• Stabilizes the root environment 🪞

🔹 Add a handful per liter for optimal protection.

6⃣ Vermiculite 🥜 (optional)

It allows targeted water retention for tropical plants such as Alocasias or young Anthuriums .

Tip: max 10-15% to avoid overly compact substrates.

7⃣ The “Mineral Mix” ⚖️

Composed of zeolite , pumice stone , and slow fertilizer , it is ideal for semi-hydroponics enthusiasts.

Ideal for:

• Stable cultures ⚡

• Sensitive plants ❤️

• More controlled watering 💧

8⃣ Clay granules 💧

Used alone or in addition, they retain water without suffocating the roots.

🔹 Ideal for terracotta pots or fine Araceae like Anthuriums.

9⃣ Clay balls 🌿: essential drainage

Place them at the bottom of the pot to avoid stagnation.

🔹 Never use them alone as a substrate. They can also maintain the humidity around the pot.

🔟 10. Blonde sphagnum peat moss (in moderation)

Rich in organic matter, it boosts a substrate that is too mineral, but should be used with ecological awareness 🌍.

💧 11. Pumice stone

A more stable and natural alternative to perlite .

Benefits :

• Doesn't float ❌

• Sustainable 📆

• Top drainage and ventilation 💧

🌿 12. Pure sphagnum: a must for fragile roots

Use it for cuttings , aerial roots , or in a tropical terrarium .

🌟 Conclusion: A tailor-made tropical substrate, the key to success

To grow rare tropical plants in Europe , choose a suitable Araceae substrate that is airy, draining, and nutritious. At Green and White Plants , our experts test and create perfect mixes for each species.

🌿 Do you want to boost the growth of your Philodendron verrucosum , Anthurium warocqueanum or Monstera obliqua ? Discover our tropical substrate kits delivered throughout France and Europe!