Potting Mix for Heavy Monsoon Rains in Bangalore

A terrace gardener in Bangalore (100L pots) had drainage failure during heavy monsoon; plants declined. Used ordinary soil + vermicompost.

Immediate Drainage Fixes

• Add coarse gravel/rock to mix.
• Or: fill bottom ⅓–½ with gravel, then soil.

Alternative: Rain Protection

Cover pots or plants to divert rain—often easier than changing established soil. Gravel dries faster but reduces soil volume.

Long-Term

Use a gritty, fast-draining mix (1:1:1 soil, coarse sand, perlite/pumice) for monsoon climates.