🌿 Soil Hydrophobia: Why Some Pots Stay Dry—and How We Fix It

🌿 Soil Hydrophobia: Why Some Pots Stay Dry—and How We Fix It

What is Soil Hydrophobia?

We’ve all had a plant that looks sad and no amount of water perks it up. You know it’s not overwatering, but you’re not sure how it could possibly be underwatering—after all, you're watering it constantly. You’ve dumped heaps of water on the pot—surely it’s had enough—but what’s really happening is that the water isn’t soaking in.

This is called soil hydrophobia—from the Latin hydro (water) and phobia (repelling). It refers to the condition where dried-out soil repels water instead of absorbing it. The surface may look damp, but if you scratch beneath the top layer, you’ll often find the soil underneath is completely dry. The soil forms channels that allow water to pass through without soaking into the root zone, leaving your plant parched despite regular watering.

Why Peat-Based Mixes Fall Short

Peat becomes hydrophobic once it dries. It also shrinks away from the pot edge, making it hard for moisture to re-enter. This is especially problematic for houseplants that thrive with a soak-and-dry watering cycle: deep watering followed by light drying.

That cycle is essential for strong root growth and overall plant health—but nearly impossible to manage with dried-out peat.

âś… Our Solution: Coco Coir + Rewetting Granules

At Rasmussen Gardens, we use coco coir in our Indoor Potting Mix because:

  • When dry It doesn't become hydrophobic
  • It re-wets easily
  • It provides great drainage and air flow

To make watering even more effective, we include rewetting granules—tiny, effective moisture magnets that help water soak in instantly.

Rewetting Granules:

  • Improve poor or dry soil
  • Help prevent water runoff
  • Can be sprinkled on top—easy amendment to poor soils

👉 Shop Rewetting Granules (500 g)

🌱 Start With a Better Mix

Our Indoor Potting Mix is made with coco coir, coco husk chips, orchid bark, perlite, slow-release fertilizer, and wetting agents. It’s ideal for aroids, orchids, and subtropicals—keeping moisture balanced while staying airy and free-draining.

đź’§ Ways to Rehydrate Dry Soil

  1. Bottom-water by placing the pot in a tray of water for 30–60 minutes.
  2. Submerge the pot in water until bubbling stops.
  3. Use rewetting granules for easy top-application—no mixing needed.

🌿 Final Tip

Avoid the frustration of dry, stubborn soil. Switch to our coco coir-based mix and boost it with rewetting granules for consistently healthy, hydrated plants—no matter how long it’s been since your last watering.

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