Activated Charcoal for Plants: Benefits, Uses & How to Apply It

Activated charcoal isn’t just for health and beauty products — it’s a game-changer for gardening too. At Plant Centre, we use horticultural-grade activated charcoal to improve soil quality, keep roots healthy, and extend the life of potted plants. Whether you grow indoor plants, orchids, or terrariums, activated charcoal can make a big difference.

What is Activated Charcoal?

Activated charcoal is carbon that’s been processed at high temperatures to create a highly porous surface. This unique structure gives it the ability to absorb toxins, excess moisture, and odors, making it perfect for keeping plant roots healthy.

Benefits of Activated Charcoal for Plants

  1. Prevents Root Rot – Absorbs excess water and improves drainage, reducing fungal infections.

  2. Neutralises Toxins – Filters harmful chemicals and bad odors from the soil.

  3. Improves Soil Aeration – Loosens compacted soil so roots can breathe.

  4. Controls Mold in Terrariums – Keeps enclosed plant environments fresh and healthy.

  5. Extends Potting Mix Life – Prevents microbial build-up, meaning you can go longer without repotting.

Where You Can Use Activated Charcoal in Gardening

  • Indoor Potted Plants – Mix into potting soil for better drainage.

  • Terrariums – Add a layer above pebbles to prevent mold.

  • Orchids – Combine with orchid bark to stop root rot.

  • Bonsai Trees – Maintain healthy soil in compact pots.

  • Seed Starting Mixes – Reduce fungal issues like damping-off.

  • Compost Bins – Absorb odors and excess liquid.

💡 Shop Now: Check out our Activated Charcoal – Plant Care Collection for high-quality, ready-to-use options.

How to Use Activated Charcoal for Plants

1. In Potting Mix

  • Add 5–10% activated charcoal to your soil to boost drainage and keep the mix fresh.

2. For Terrariums

  • Create a 1–2 cm layer above gravel before adding soil.

3. As a Top Dressing

  • Sprinkle a thin layer on the soil surface to prevent mold growth.

4. For Orchids

  • Mix 1 part activated charcoal with 4 parts orchid bark.

5. In Compost

  • Add a handful per layer to reduce smells and absorb extra moisture.

Tips for Best Results

  • Use horticultural-grade charcoal only (avoid BBQ charcoal).

  • Rinse lightly before use to remove dust.

  • Stick to recommended amounts to prevent soil from drying too quickly.

  • Store in an airtight container to maintain quality.

Conclusion
Activated charcoal is a small investment with big benefits for your plants. From preventing root rot to extending the life of potting mixes, it’s a must-have for every plant lover’s toolkit.

Back to blog