I just use whatever potting soil is on sale (Mostly ACE). It has no fertilizer in the mix, I add some bonemeal at time of potting, and add more pertile for good drainage. Water twice a week, and I will again after it blooms give it more fertilizer 10-10-10 (balance or more bonemeal). I live in the city so the animals normally do not dig up the plants because of the bonemeal.