I am sorry to tell you this, but I think most of the things you bought are going to cause problems, especially the potting soil. Have you read the most popular thread on this forum, Container Soils -- Water Movement and Retention? It may seem too technical at first, but take your time and read the 94 questions and answers from people just like you. Most of us who follow Al's advice are very happy with the results.

Here is a link that might be useful: Follow this link to read about container mixes that work

Thanks, Ohio. I have read it, but it's a little much for a beginner who has only previously used bagged mixes. I'm a pretty decent DIYer with all kinds of projects (I even make my own laundry detergent). I was hoping someone could give me a straightforward recipe to start out with, or help me figure out which components need to be swapped without a huge technical explanation. I have read the 5:1:1 but I don't know what some of the items in it are or how to find them at a store. Then there's fertilizers, compost, etc. - so many to choose from and not 100% with my techniques to apply it (mix in vs. "top dressing") in the proper amounts or intervals.

I did get a couple of things right with the moss and the perlite.

Anyone else want to chime in with some easy advice for a beginner?