The Hidden Issue Beneath the Soil
One of the biggest hurdles in sharing gardening knowledge is asking people to be truly honest about their soil.
We might think we know the type of soil in our gardens, but how many of us can honestly say we've consistently enriched it with organic matter? How many of us regularly fertilise or replenish our soil every three months and apply liquid fertiliser every two weeks?
Sometimes, the difference between rarely and often is the key to unlocking our garden’s full potential.
But even if you’re already doing this, how much of the water and fertiliser is really getting into your soil? More importantly, how much is actually reaching your plant’s roots?
The Silent Problem of Hydrophobic Soil
With the extreme heat and drying winds we’ve been experiencing, plants dry out far sooner than we realise. This harsh weather pulls moisture from both the soil and foliage, often leaving plants struggling.
Over time, soil can become hydrophobic—meaning it repels water instead of absorbing it. Hydrophobic soil leads to uneven water distribution, meaning even if you’re watering consistently, it might not be making a difference. You could be fertilising and caring for your plants, only to have all that effort go to waste. This issue affects gardens, lawns, and potted plants alike.
What’s worse, hydrophobic soil doesn’t just prevent water from soaking in—it also stops fertilisers from penetrating, leaving plants malnourished.
The Role of Ants in Hydrophobic Soil
A surprising but common cause of hydrophobic soil is ants nesting in plant roots. When ants build extensive tunnel systems in potting mix and garden beds, they create air pockets that prevent water from soaking in properly.
Many gardeners notice mealybugs or scale insects on their plants and assume they have an insect problem. In reality, the root cause is often excessive ant activity. Ants farm these sap-sucking pests because they produce honeydew, a sugary substance that ants love to eat. The result? A weakened plant, compacted and dry soil, and a thriving ant colony.
If your soil dries out quickly, remains hard even after watering, or seems to have a persistent insect problem, ants may be the hidden culprits.
How to Fix Hydrophobic Soil
While adding compost and mulch is beneficial, I find the quickest and easiest way to rehydrate soil and improve absorption is by using a soil wetter.
I know I’ve talked about this before, but I keep seeing the same issue plants suffering because water isn’t reaching their roots. Soil wetters make a real difference, and I use them at Trevallan Lifestyle Centre and at home.
How Soil Wetters Work
Soil wetters reduce the surface tension of water, helping it penetrate rather than run off the soil surface. They restore soil hydration and ensure water and nutrients reach the root zone.
Granular vs. Liquid Soil Wetters
I prefer granular soil wetters because they break down slowly and improve moisture retention over time.
My mother and sister prefer liquid wetters because they work faster and are easier to apply.
Both work effectively, so it’s a matter of preference.
To get the best results:
Apply soil wetters to garden beds, pots, and lawns to rehydrate soil.
Use organic matter like compost to improve soil structure.
Address ant infestations by removing sap-sucking insects (like aphids and mealybugs) and using natural deterrents like neem oil or diatomaceous earth.
Monitor soil moisture to prevent hydrophobic conditions from returning.
Different Types of Soil Wetters Trevallan stocks
Soil Soaker™ Granular is a biodegradable wetting agent that improves water penetration in hydrophobic soils, ensuring moisture reaches plant roots effectively. It contains diatomaceous earth, which provides silica to strengthen plants and reduce heat, transpiration, and salt stress. Ideal for garden beds, potted plants, turf, and commercial landscapes, it helps prevent water runoff and dry spots. Safe for plants, non-burning, and easy to apply, it enhances soil hydration for healthier growth
Soil Soaker™ Wetting Agent Concentrate is an eco-friendly solution designed to address hydrophobic (water-repellent) soils and potting mediums that repel water under dry conditions. This 100% biodegradable surfactant enhances water penetration, ensuring moisture reaches plant roots effectively. Enriched with natural organic humates, it conditions the soil, nourishes beneficial microbes, and improves moisture retention, promoting healthier plant growth. Ideal for dry, sandy soils, gardens, and turf, Soil Soaker™ helps prevent water runoff and dry patches, making it a must-have for maintaining optimal soil hydration
Searles Penetraide® Re-Wetting Granules are designed to combat water-repellent soils, ensuring efficient water and nutrient delivery to plant roots. These easy-to-apply granules enhance soil moisture absorption, reduce runoff, and improve the effectiveness of fertilisers and pesticides. Suitable for pots, gardens, and lawns, a single application can last up to 12 months, promoting healthier and more resilient plants.
Searles Recharge Ultimate Fertiliser – Flower & Fruit is a premium, triple-action fertiliser specifically formulated to enhance flowering and fruiting in plants. It combines controlled-release nutrients that provide up to 12 months of feeding, instant-release fertilisers for immediate nutrient availability, and Penetraide® re-wetting granules to improve water penetration in dry soils. Enriched with trace elements, minerals, micronutrients, and zeolite, this fertiliser promotes lush foliage, vibrant blooms, and robust fruit development. Suitable for use in pots and gardens, including Australian native plants, it ensures sustained nourishment and improved soil moisture retention.
By understanding how water moves through your soil, recognising the signs of hydrophobic conditions, and using the right tools, you can dramatically improve plant health and stop wasting water and fertiliser.
Have you used soil wetters before?
If not, it might be time to give them a try!