Growing cannabis requires attention to various details, one of which is the quality of the soil used. Supersoil is a term that describes a highly nutritious soil mix, often organic, that provides the cannabis plant with optimal nutrients throughout its growth cycle. In this article, we will break down the basics of what supersoil is, why it’s advantageous for cannabis cultivation, and how you can create your own.
What is Supersoil?
Supersoil is a nutrient-rich, living soil prepared with various organic materials. Unlike standard soils, it requires little to no additional fertilizers or nutrients, as it’s designed to supply all the necessary nutrients for the entire growing cycle of the plant.
Advantages of Using Supersoil for Cannabis
- Nutrient Availability: Supersoil is rich in essential nutrients, eliminating the need for frequent fertilization.
- Microbial Life: Organic ingredients encourage a healthy ecosystem of beneficial microbes.
- pH Balance: Naturally buffers the soil, keeping pH levels stable.
- Sustainability: Organic and eco-friendly, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers.
Ingredients for Making Your Own Supersoil
- Base Soil: 1-part organic potting soil
- Compost: 1-part high-quality organic compost
- Aeration: 1-part perlite or rice hulls for aeration
- Worm Castings: About 30 lbs per 100 gallons of soil mix
- Bone Meal and Fish Bone Meal: Phosphorus source
- Bat Guano: For nitrogen and microorganisms
- Blood Meal: Quick nitrogen source
- Epsom Salts: Magnesium source
- Dolomite Lime: For calcium and magnesium
- Azomite: Trace minerals
- Kelp Meal: For potassium and trace elements
Creating Your Supersoil: Step-by-Step Guide
- Initial Mixing: Combine all your ingredients in a large container or directly on a tarp. Make sure you mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of nutrients.
- Moistening: Add water to make the mixture moist but not waterlogged.
- Cooking the Soil: Store your moistened soil mix in large bins or directly on the ground, covered with a tarp. Let the mixture “cook” for 4–6 weeks. This period allows the microbial life to break down the organic material into a form that is easily accessible to your plants.
- Testing: Before using the soil, it’s a good idea to test its pH. Aim for a pH level between 6 and 7 for optimal cannabis growth.
- Planting: Fill your growing pots with the ready-to-use supersoil. Plant your cannabis seeds or seedlings.
- Watering: Only plain water is needed for most of the plant’s life. The supersoil provides all the essential nutrients.
Notes and Precautions
- Always wear gloves and a mask when handling soil and organic amendments, as some can be dusty or pose allergen risks.
- While the supersoil provides most nutrients, you may still need to monitor for signs of deficiencies and make minor nutrient adjustments.
Conclusion
Supersoil offers a simplified and effective way to cultivate cannabis, particularly for those who wish to grow organically. By investing time in preparing your own supersoil, you not only save time and effort in the long run but also provide your plants with a balanced, nutrient-rich environment that can significantly impact the quality of your final harvest.
