Question
Hi Ms. Kittle,
I would like to know how often I should change dirt in my house plants.  I really have a variety of house plants, but I just mean "in general".  Thanks in advance,
Sherri

Answer
Sherri,

Changing the soil is not necessary as long as you are using a fertilizer on a monthly basis. The soil commonly used for houseplants is a mix of compost, peat moss and perlite to make a light weight airy mix that will support the roots and not be too heavy. It only needs replaced if it is abused and constantly overw2atered causing it to become somewhat rotten. As long as it is allowed to dry or nearly dry between waterings and fertilized on a monthly basis all months except January and February you can keep your plants in the same soil for 20 years. I have some that have been in the same soil that long and they are very healthy. Good luck.

Darlene