Alocasia Mix - Moisture Retentive & Well Aerated (Mix #2)

AROID SERIES: ALOCASIA POTTING MIX #2

Consistent moisture. Essential root-zone aeration. A thoughtfully balanced mix for Alocasia.

PLEASE NOTE: While Mix #2 was formulated first and foremost for Alocasia, its combination of moisture-retentive organic materials, structured bark, and mineral components may also suit other tropical plants with similar growing requirements. Don't let the name limit your imagination!

WHY WE CREATED THIS MIX

Alocasia often appreciate a steady supply of moisture, but their roots still need oxygen. A substrate that dries too quickly can make watering difficult to manage; one that stays saturated can restrict air around the roots. We wanted a mix that addresses both concerns.

We asked a retired soil scientist with more than 60 years of professional experience to help us develop a peat-free growing medium specifically around the way Alocasia grow.

Mix #2 uses coconut coir as its moisture-holding foundation, with Orchiata Classic bark, pumice, and Perlite #2 to support structure and air space. Fluffy tree fern fiber contributes a soft, fibrous texture, while a modest amount of worm castings adds organic matter.

The goal isn't to keep roots constantly wet. It's to provide moisture without sacrificing access to air.

WHAT MAKES MIX #2 DIFFERENT?

Moisture-Holding Foundation: Coconut coir makes up a substantial portion of the mix and helps buffer moisture between waterings.

Two Mineral Components: Pumice (3–6 mm) and Perlite #2 help maintain air-filled spaces and support drainage. Pumice adds a more substantial mineral framework; perlite keeps the blend lighter.

Bark and Fiber: Orchiata Classic provides bark structure, while fluffy tree fern fiber adds a softer, fibrous component.

Small Organic Amendment: Worm castings contribute organic matter and some nutrients without replacing a regular fertilization program.

MIX #2 — PERFORMANCE RATINGS

Chunkiness: ★★☆☆☆
Aeration: ★★★½☆
Drainage: ★★★½☆
Moisture Retention: ★★★★½
Longevity: ★★★☆☆
Wicking: ★★★★½

WHAT'S IN THE BAG?

• Coconut Coir: Retains and distributes moisture throughout the growing medium.
• Orchiata Classic: Pine bark that contributes structure and supports an open root environment.
• Pumice: Porous mineral particles that support aeration and drainage.
• Perlite #2: Lightweight particles that create additional pore space.
• Tree Fern Fiber: Fibrous material that contributes texture and moisture buffering.
• Worm Castings: Organic matter and a modest nutrient contribution.

WHICH PLANTS CAN GROW IN MIX #2?

Developed for Alocasia, including many commonly cultivated species and hybrids such as Frydek, Polly, Black Velvet, and other Alocasia grown as tropical houseplants.

Its moisture-balanced, aerated structure may also be suitable for selected Goeppertia (Calathea), Maranta, Begonia, Spathiphyllum (Peace Lily), terrestrial ferns, and jewel orchids, depending on their individual requirements and growing conditions.

Not every species within these groups prefers the same moisture level. Choose a growing medium based on the plant's roots and environment, not its name alone.

WATERING MIX #2

Water thoroughly in a container with drainage holes, then let excess water escape. Check moisture below the surface before watering again, and adjust to the plant's growth, temperature, light, humidity, and airflow rather than following a fixed schedule.

Avoid overpotting. A small root system in an oversized pot can leave a large volume of substrate damp for too long, even when the mix is designed for aeration.

For bottom-watering or self-watering setups, check that moisture moves through the pot as intended and that the root zone is not persistently saturated.

WHY WE MADE IT: OUR PON PROBLEM

We love Pon for Alocasia. In fact, we'll admit it: quite a few of our stud plants are growing in it.

But if you've ever tried shipping hundreds of Alocasia planted in Pon, you know how quick things can go south.  Those little rocks become projectiles. The pots are ridiculously heavy. Plants get bounced around in transit. Roots get damaged. And somewhere along the way, the person packing the box begins reconsidering every decision that led them to this moment.

Real wholesale doesn't involve wrapping every plant like a burrito before carefully tucking it into a box. That's far too expensive and time-consuming when you're shipping plants by the hundreds. Thats a niche packing method for plants with a substantial mark up. we just couldn't get away with selling in pon. 

So we went to our soil guru with a request:

Give us something our Alocasia will love as much as Pon — without the shipping nightmare.

And she did not disappoint.

OPTIONAL BOOSTER PACK

Mix #2 is complete and ready to use straight from the bag. Our optional myco+ Essentials Booster Pack is available for growers who want additional root-zone amendments. It is optional and does not replace an appropriate fertilization program.

HAND-BLENDED BY TEZULA

Our growing media are hand-blended in small batches with attention to ingredient selection and texture. Plant performance depends on species, container, environment, and care, but our goal is always to give roots a thoughtfully designed place to grow.

Happy Planting!
The Tezula Team