Why All-Gravel?
An all-gravel planting medium is more than just a stylish choice — it offers unique benefits for plants that thrive in excellent drainage and root aeration.
Key Benefits:
- Exceptional Drainage: Reduces risk of root rot and fungal diseases.
- Improved Root Health: Air spaces between stones keep oxygen flowing to roots.
- Clean & Low-Mess: No soil, no muddy runoff, fewer pests.
- Long-Lasting Medium: Gravel won’t compact or break down over time.
- Modern Aesthetic: Sleek, decorative, perfect for minimal displays.
- Nutrient-Boosted Mix: At Vine & Dandy we use our own gravel formulation which includes zeolite, pumice, lava rock, and slow-release fertilizer pellets. Zeolite absorbs moisture, heavy metals, and helps balance pH levels. Pumice and lava rock are porous volcanic materials that aid in water absorption and aeration, ensuring roots stay healthy and well-oxygenated.
Care Tips for Gravel-Grown Plants
1. Watering
- Provide approximately 10 mm of water per inch of container diameter per week (about 2 teaspoons of water per inch of container diameter).
- Example: A 4-inch pot needs about 40 mm (~8 tsp) weekly.
- Pour water slowly and evenly over the gravel, or use a measured syringe to apply the exact amount directly at the base.
- Adjust for seasons — less in cooler months, more in warm, dry conditions.
2. Fertilizing
- All plants in all-gravel medium from Vine & Dandy are planted with long-acting slow-release fertilizer mixed into the gravel.
- No extra feeding is needed for several months.
- After 6–9 months, supplement with diluted liquid fertilizer as needed.
3. Repotting & Refreshing
- Gravel doesn’t break down, so repot only for plant size.
- To repot: place into a larger container and add fresh gravel.
- Alternatively: repot into cactus soil along with the existing gravel to improve aeration.
Quick Watering Reference Chart
| Pot Diameter | Water Depth | Teaspoons | mL (Syringe) |
| 2″ | 20 mm | 4 tsp | 20 mL |
| 3″ | 30 mm | 6 tsp | 30 mL |
| 4″ | 40 mm | 8 tsp | 40 mL |
| 5″ | 50 mm | 10 tsp | 50 mL |
| 6″ | 60 mm | 12 tsp | 60 mL |
(1 teaspoon ≈ 5 mL)
Quick Care Summary
Water: ~10 mm (2 tsp) per inch of container diameter weekly.
Fertilizer: Pre-planted with long-acting slow-release fertilizer.
Clean: Gravel is low-maintenance and long-lasting.
