I have a very quick question. I have been using the wick method to get a handle on watering in the Gritty Mix (as well as to ensure that excess water drains out-since my Gritty Mix still has a bit of PWT; every time after watering and then tipping my pot, a bit more water will drain out).

Does anyone ever have a problem with the wick getting moldy? I know this is gross...but with the less air flow around in the winter (+warmer indoor temp), my wick has decided it wants to get moldy. I soaked the moldy part of the wick with diluted bleach. But I am afraid that maybe the bacteria on the wick may travel upward to the soil?

Am I doing something wrong such that my wick is all gross?

Thank you!
Ruby

I would recommend something less caustic, like Hydrogen Peroxide, when you clean your wick.

Otherwise, plants co-exist with many, many different bacteria and fungi,
and hardly ever is there is problem.

Josh

Usually, you only need a wick until the planting has matured to the point where the entire root mass is colonized by roots. After that, you can remove the wick. I use mop strands from 100% rayon mop heads for my wicks. One mophead costs under $5 and you'll get hundreds of wicks & years of service for your investment.

Al

Any suggestions for adding a wick to existing containers? I'm not sure how I could get the mop strand up into the mix through the mesh. I just learned about this and tested it by putting a towel under my azalea. I was surprised by how much water came out. I think my wet-foot-hating azalea will be much happier with me now.

Thanks so much for your help!

Angela