bonsaiTALK Community - View Single Post - What Soil Do You Grow Out In?

I'll see if I can find that book. Finding a soil medium that works for you is a fine-tuning process, and you do have to start somewhere. If you are getting warmth, moisture and the diffusion of air into the soil, and if it drains reasonably well it should be a workable mixture. Organic material will break down pretty quickly and impede drainage. Even softer inorganic materials will corrode by erosion and action of the roots.

I think I mentioned in that linked thread above that I used the organic part mainly as a mulch in the top bit of soil. It might not be a good idea to use a high-organic potting soil for projects that are going to go awhile between repotting. You are almost certainly good for a season though if you keep an eye on it. It can be more disruptive to repot unnecessarily.

How big are your containers? Do be sure to add some blocks or supports (feet) under the terra cotta to make sure they drain freely. If the hole sits right on the bench, it won't do too well.

Regards,

Matt

22-May-2004	#4
TreeBay Tips:5¢ Advice:Free *MODERATOR GROUP* Join Date: Aug-2001 Location: Silicon Valley Country: USA USDA Zone: 9 AHS Heat Zone: 4 Posts: 9,745	I'll see if I can find that book. Finding a soil medium that works for you is a fine-tuning process, and you do have to start somewhere. If you are getting warmth, moisture and the diffusion of air into the soil, and if it drains reasonably well it should be a workable mixture. Organic material will break down pretty quickly and impede drainage. Even softer inorganic materials will corrode by erosion and action of the roots. I think I mentioned in that linked thread above that I used the organic part mainly as a mulch in the top bit of soil. It might not be a good idea to use a high-organic potting soil for projects that are going to go awhile between repotting. You are almost certainly good for a season though if you keep an eye on it. It can be more disruptive to repot unnecessarily. How big are your containers? Do be sure to add some blocks or supports (feet) under the terra cotta to make sure they drain freely. If the hole sits right on the bench, it won't do too well. Regards, Matt __________________ Want to be a seller on bonsaiAUCTIONS? Get authorized today! bonsaiTALK: Over 100,005.36 Megabytes Served this Month!