Jordsubstrat

Jordsubstrat is a growing medium used in soil-based horticulture to cultivate plants in pots, trays, or beds. It is engineered to provide mechanical support, retain suitable moisture, supply nutrients, and allow root respiration. Jordsubstrat differs from bare mineral soil by delivering specific physical and chemical properties, such as drainage, aeration, and nutrient availability, tailored to crop needs and cultivation systems.

Common components include organic matter such as peat moss, coconut coir, or composted bark, along with mineral fractions like perlite, vermiculite, sand, or expanded clay. Substrates can be peat-based or peat-free, and many mixes blend components to balance water retention, drainage, and aeration. The pH is adjusted to suit the crop, typically about 5.5 to 6.5 for many greenhouse crops.

Physical and chemical properties of jordsubstrat influence irrigation and fertilization. Key factors include bulk density, total porosity, air-filled porosity, water-holding capacity, and cation-exchange capacity. Some products are sterilized or pasteurized to reduce pests and diseases, and fertilization is often done via slow-release formulations or fertigation.

Uses include seedling production, pot plants, bedding crops, and greenhouse crops. Selection depends on plant type, irrigation strategy, drainage, and nutrient management. Regular monitoring of moisture, pH, and salinity helps maintain growth, and substrates are often refreshed at repotting or replacement cycles.

Environmental considerations are increasingly important. Peat-based jordsubstrat raises concerns about carbon storage and habitat disturbance, leading to greater use of peat-free alternatives such as coco coir, wood fiber, composted bark, or mineral blends. Quality standards and certifications help guide sustainable production and use.