Free download: guide to create your own substrates and care for your plants like a professional

Master the art of the perfect substrate: free guide to take care of your plants like a pro

The substrate is the heart of any plant. Beyond light and watering, it is the base where roots develop, nutrients are stored and the balance between water and oxygen is maintained. Choosing or preparing a good substrate can make the difference between a plant that simply "survives" and a small ecosystem that thrives in a healthy way.

Whether you grow houseplants, succulents, aromatic plants or an urban garden, knowing how to create the right substrate allows you to adapt the mix to the real needs of each species. That's why we at Domestika have prepared a free download: a PDF inspired by the course "Designing green spaces for your home". A practical guide to understand the soil, customize it and take care of your plants like a pro.

What is a substrate and why is it so important.

The substrate is the mixture where the roots grow. Its main function is to retain water and nutrients, but also to allow air to circulate freely. This balance is essential for plants to breathe, absorb minerals and grow strong.

A poorly chosen substrate can cause:

- Excess moisture → fungus and rot.
- Lack of aeration → suffocated roots.
- Nutrient imbalances → yellow leaves, poor growth or lack of resistance.
Knowing the materials and proportions is key to healthy and sustainable growth.

What you will find in this free download.

The guide includes:

- Types of substrates for indoor, succulent, aromatic, urban garden and tropical plants.
- Essential components: peat, coconut fiber, perlite, vermiculite, compost, coarse sand, bark....
- Recommended proportions to balance humidity and aeration.
- Tips for reusing used substrates and enriching them.
- Recommendations to keep the mix fresh, light and free of fungi.
An indispensable guide to creating and maintaining a sustainable green environment.

An indispensable guide to creating and maintaining a sustainable green environment.

How to prepare your substrate step by step.

Simplified version:

Step 1: Identify the plant.
Each species requires a different mix.

Step 2: Mix the materials.
Join the components together in the proper proportions. It should feel loose and fluffy.

Step 3: Avoid compacting it
Oxygen should circulate between the roots.

Step 4: Moisten lightly.
Activate the mixture before planting.

Step 5: Keep the surplus.
Store in a ventilated container away from moisture.

Advantages of creating your own substrates.
- Total customization.
- Sustainability and waste reduction.
- Economic savings.
- Greater understanding of the ecosystem of your plants.

Preparing your mixes makes you an active caretaker of your own green environment.

From the resource to the complete course.

If you want to go deeper, we recommend Domestika's course "Designing green spaces for your home", where you will learn botany, design and creativity to transform any corner into a balanced green space.

Extra tips for the care of your plants.

- Use pots with good drainage.
- Check the compaction of the substrate from time to time.
- Add organic compost regularly.
- Look at the leaves: they are the best indicator of health.
Small adjustments can make a big difference.

Understanding substrates is the first step to conscious and functional green design. Preparing your own mixes connects you to the natural cycle of your plants and allows you to care for them from the ground up.

Taking care of roots is taking care of life. Start from the ground up: create your own substrates and let nature grow with you.