Cebu plant parents love their plants — but sometimes, even with the best intentions, our soil choices slow down growth or cause silent root problems. Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. What matters is learning the right fixes so your plants can grow healthier, greener, and happier.

Here are the top soil mistakes Cebu plant parents commonly make — and how to correct them the CHG way.

1. Using Garden Soil Only

Garden soil is heavy, compact, and holds too much water — especially during Cebu’s humid or rainy days. Roots can’t breathe, and growth becomes slow or stunted.

CHG Fix:

Lighten your soil with aerating ingredients like:

• Pumice – improves airflow
• CRH (Carbonized Rice Hull) – balances moisture
• Cocopeat – soft, moisture-retentive base

Shop CHG Pumice.
Shop CHG CRH.

Simple Cebu-friendly blend:
40% Garden Soil + 30% Cocopeat + 20% Pumice + 10% CRH

2. Forgetting to Check Pot Drainage

No drainage holes = stagnant water at the bottom. Even the best soil can’t save a plant from drowning roots.

CHG Fix:

• Choose pots with drainage holes (always!).
• If using decorative pots, double pot using a nursery pot inside.
• Make sure excess water flows out freely.

3. Over-Reusing Old Soil

Cebu’s climate breaks down soil faster, making it compact, lifeless, and prone to molds and gnats.

CHG Fix:

Refresh your soil every 4–6 months by adding:

• Pumice for aeration
• Vermicast for nutrients
• Fresh potting mix to revive texture

Shop CHG Premium Potting Mixes – 5n1 Organic Mix, 5n1 Soilless Mix, 6n1 Soilless Mix, 7n1 Chunky Mix, Chunky Mix No Barks, 4n1 Germination Seed Mix.

If your soil smells bad or looks slimy, it’s time to fully replace it.

4. Using One Mix for All Plants

Different plants have different soil needs — especially in Cebu’s humid and tropical environment. Using one mix for all plants often leads to overwatering, compacted soil, or slow growth.

CHG Fix:

Choose the right soil for each plant type.

Succulents & Cacti

They love soil that dries quickly and drains fast.

Best Soil: Pumice-heavy, fast-draining mix	Use: CHG Premium 6n1 Soilless Potting Mix with Sterilized Pumice
Shop CHG Pumice	Shop CHG 6n1 Soilless Potting Mix

Aroids (Pothos, Philodendrons, Monsteras, Syngoniums, Anthuriums)

These plants love chunky, airy, breathable mixes — essential in Cebu’s humidity.
CHG created two aroid mixes tailored for Cebu conditions:

CHG Aroid Mix – WITH Acacia Barks (7n1 Chunky Mix) Perfect for aroids that thrive in structured soil.	CHG Aroid Mix – WITHOUT Acacia Barks (Chunky Mix No Barks) A bark-free option for those who prefer a lighter medium.
Shop CHG Aroid Mix with Acacia Barks	Shop CHG Aroid Mix Without Acacia Barks

Outdoor Plants (Bougainvillea, Gumamela, Ornamentals)

Outdoor plants prefer soil that’s nutrient-rich and sun-tolerant.

Best Soil: Garden soil + CRH + organic matter	Use: CHG 5n1 Organic Potting Mix or CHG 5n1 Soilless Potting Mix
Shop CHG CRH	Shop CHG 5n1 Organic Mix Shop CHG 5n1 Soilless Mix

Herbs & Edibles (Basil, Oregano, Lemongrass, Mint)

Need loose, nutrient-rich soil that maintains steady moisture.

Best Soil: Cocopeat + garden soil + vermicast	Use: CHG Premium 5n1 Organic Potting Mix
Shop CHG Vermicast	Shop CHG 5n1 Organic Potting Mix

Matching Soil to Your Plant Makes Everything Easier

When you choose the correct soil, you’ll notice:
✔ faster root development
✔ less overwatering
✔ fewer pests
✔ richer growth
✔ happier plants overall

CHG offers ready-to-use mixes tailored for Cebu conditions so your plants can thrive effortlessly.

5. Ignoring Soil Warning Signs

Cebu humidity encourages:

• Algae
• White molds
• Hardened top soil
• Slow drainage

CHG Fix:

• Loosen topsoil weekly
• Add pumice to increase airflow
• Replace the top 1–2 inches with fresh mix
• Improve ventilation around your plant shelf

Small habits make a big difference.

Upgrade Your Soil, Upgrade Your Plants

Healthy soil is the heart of happy plants. When you avoid these common mistakes and use the right CHG-approved mixes, you’ll see visible improvements — stronger roots, greener leaves, and faster growth.

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Grow smart.
Grow happy.
Grow with Cebu Happy Growers. 💚