|
|
NOTE: The lime called for is normal, run-of-the-mill garden lime, NOT fast acting lime.
I call it 'soil' because it's not like dirt in the ground. It's a soil less mixture used in container gardening. Although it IS for container gardening my question is about the soil mix itself not advice on container gardening. Below is the soil less mix I use; it's a big batch and it yields about 30 gallons per batch. I find that it dries out very quickly. I am aware that part of the problem is that it's because it's in a container and any soil will dry out faster in a container, it just goes with the territory of container gardening. However I also know it's just in the nature of the soil mixture itself (in regards to the 'recipe' posted below). It's been designed to absorb moisture so that the plants don't get wet feet, and/or so you don't over water. This is more of a hindrance then a help in the summer, and the problem is compounded with container gardening. I was wondering if I should replace part of the ingredients
However I also don't want to be bone dry that I'm having to water at the drop of a hat, which is currently the problem.
|
Follow-Up Postings:
|
| If moisture retention is insufficient, then you should seriously consider replacing much of that perlite with vermiculite. Vermiculite is better at retaining moisture than perlite. There are also these "water beads" that you can add to containers, but I *only* use them in really small containers to even things out between waterings. Almost all of my containers have built-in water wicks. They have a water reservoir in the bottom, with a fabric wick that draws water up from the bottom. This helps quite a bit. |
|
- Posted by garystpaul z4 MN (My Page) on Sun, Mar 18, 12 at 23:19
| IMO, there's WAY too much perlite in the mix. I'm not sure how many gallons 2-3 cu ft of the pine bark fines add up to, but my sense is there's too much of that also. The following mixture works well for me (good drainage, but no need to water constantly): 4 parts spaghnum peat or Pro-Mix with micros; 3 parts my own screened compost; 2 parts shredded pine bark fines; 1 part perlite (plus add-ins such as dolomitic lime, some slow-release ferts, as necessary. I also put a couple of sheets of newspaper over the bottom holes and tucked around the plant (tomato, e.g.) at the top, to help hold the moisture. |
|
| I'd eschew the vermiculite, which simply turns to mush, and add more peat moss. I far prefer a fast draining potting mix and my favorite is mostly bark. I have no problem watering thoroughly once a day, or even twice if necessary. Are you watering the heck out of your plants when you water or just offering a sip? |
Please Note: Only registered members are able to post messages to this forum. If you are a member, please log in. If you aren't yet a member, join now!
Return to the Soil Forum
Instructions
- You must be a registered member and logged in to post messages on our forums.
- Posting is a two-step process. Once you have composed your message, you will be taken to the preview page. You will then have a chance to review the contents and make changes.
- After posting your message, you may need to refresh the forum page in order to see it.
- It is illegal to post copyrighted material without the owner's consent.
- HTML codes are allowed in the message field only.
- No advertising is allowed in any of the forums.
- If you would like to practice posting or uploading photos, please visit our Test forum.
- If you need assistance, please Contact Us and we will be happy to help.