Choosing the right soil for your new urban planter boxes is crucial for gardening success. Unlike garden beds, containers have unique drainage and nutrient requirements. The ideal soil is actually a "soilless" potting mix, not dirt from the ground.
A high-quality potting mix should contain three key components:
- Peat moss or coconut coir for moisture retention
- Perlite or vermiculite for aeration and drainage
- Compost for nutrients and organic matter
For vegetable planters, use a mix containing 60% potting soil, 30% compost, and 10% perlite. This provides excellent drainage while supplying nutrients for growth. Herbs prefer even better drainage - add extra perlite or coarse sand to prevent root rot.
Avoid using garden soil alone in containers, as it compacts easily and doesn't drain properly. Refresh your planter box soil each growing season by mixing in new compost and organic matter. With the right soil foundation, your urban garden will thrive throughout the season.