How to Prepare Adenium Media and Plant It

Discussing Adenium Media for Beginners

Adenium media often raises many questions for beginners. Today, we'll discuss this topic in detail.

Preparing Soil/Media for Adenium:

Previously, we shared insights on this topic. There’s no fixed method as everyone has their own way of preparing media. However, keeping some key factors in mind is essential. Today, I’ll explain a simple process that ensures your plant thrives. This method is easy, cost-effective, and hassle-free—perfect for beginners.

Key Composition:

Prepare the media using 60%-70% denutritional items and 30%-40% nutritional items. The media should never be compact and must allow water to drain within 5–10 seconds after watering. Let’s dive into the process!

Media Components:

Here’s my method for making Adenium media:

• Coarse Red Sand: 55%-60%
• Leaf Mold: 25%-30%
• Other Items (15%-20%): Vermicompost, small charcoal pieces, brick chips, rice husk, processed or old cocopeat.
• Optional Additions: A small amount of lime powder, antifungal agents, and neem cake.

Preparation Notes:

• Avoid chemicals during media preparation.
• If vermicompost or leaf mold contains Trichoderma, skip using additional antifungal agents or lime.
• Mix all components well and leave the mixture for 15–20 days. This resting period allows harmful gases generated from the mix to escape.

Planting Process:

• Use a pot with proper drainage. Fill the bottom 1/3 or 1/4 with coarse gravel or coco chips.
• Add dry leaves on top of the gravel to prevent the sandy media from slipping down.
• Gently place the Adenium plant in the pot and surround it with the prepared media. Press lightly to secure the plant without compacting the media.

Ideal Environment:

• Remove all leaves before planting.
• Water thoroughly and keep the plant in a shaded area with good airflow and light.
• After 3–5 days, as new leaves appear, move the plant to a spot with 3–5 hours of sunlight.
• After 10–15 days, expose the plant to full sun.

General Care:

Adeniums need minimal care. Protect them from heavy rain in monsoon and frost in winter. Regular watering, exposure to sunlight, and pruning will keep the plant healthy and flowering.

Fertilizer and Supplements:

Avoid overuse of chemical fertilizers, as it can harm the plant. Repot once a year to replenish nutrients. For heavy flowering, supplement with light NPK, Osmocote every 4 months, and occasional applications of Epsom salt or seaweed extract. Use antifungal agents every 7–10 days during monsoon, rotating different types to avoid resistance.

By following these steps, you can successfully grow healthy Adenium plants!