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Quote:

Originally Posted by ObiBoobyWan

I'm having a similiar problem finding lava rock that is properly sized. I can find it, but only in very large pieces. At this point I have for my soil:

Turface MVP (11$, 50lbs) - a little fine, will be sifted
"Better Gro" Orchid bark - a little big, will be broken up a bit and sifted
Schultz Potting Bark (Fir Bark) - good sized, will be sifted

I'm not sure what to use as an additional inorganic. I really want lava rock because it porous. I will not order it and pay shipping for it however.

I'm considering making an attempt at breaking up the larger lava rock I can buy. I've read conflicting opinions on if this is possible or not. I'm doubtful that it is.

Besides lava rock that is too big, I appear to have the options of using Perlite or smooth gravel (pea gravel or aquarium gravel). I have not "seen" perlite yet but it feels like it must be incredibly fine when I feel it in it's bag. I'm a little put off by this and have trouble understanding how it would be a suitable substitute for much bigger and porous lava rock. Pea gravel seems to fit the bill better by being bigger. I haven't seen pumice or haydite anywhere. I have seen granite, but again way to big. Every rock I've seen is too big or totally smooth.

Any suggestions on where I might find lava rock locally? Suggestions on breaking up lava rock? Is it possible? Would you recommend perlite over smooth pea gravel? And comments on the parts of my soil mix that I already have?

Thanks,

Rob - Tampa, FL (all my trees are small, many in 4" containers)

I'm also about to order "pond baskets" online. I want pots with a screened in side of some sort as well as a pot that is extremely cheap (1-2$ each). Anyone had a good experience ordering these from a particular online site?

Rob,

Skip the breaking rocks and leave that for convicts in Alabama or wherever they still do that.

You need to contact Erik Wigert. His number is 239-896-5549. He's a little south of you but will ship. Web site is (www.wigerstbonsai.com). I know he sells the properly sized lava as well as a very nice mix similar to what you are trying to make. It's ready to go in 5 gallon buckets that are UPS shippable. It may be worth your time to drive down and see him too. Road trip?

As far as pond baskets and such - I recently purchased 2 cases (read: way too many) of a couple of versions of a 11" colander. Because you are local to me I would be willing to part with as many as you need for an amount in your price range. PM me by clicking on my avatar and let me know. I'm in Lakeland so I'm no mare than 1 hour from you or I can ship.