Soil for Grow Box

[eliass]

Can anyone recomend a commericaly availible soil mix to be used in a poly growing box? whilst many people create their own soils i was wondering if anything is sold at bunnings that can be used as opposed to the $8.00 - 10 Lt Bonsai Mixes i have been buying from orientel nursery?

thanks in advance!

[Bougy Fan]

For growing on mixes I use potting mix and diatomite 50/50. The diatomite helps with aeration of the soil and provides good drainage, as well as retaining some moisture that doesn't make the mix wet. Diatomite can be found at pet stores and produce stores sold as cat litter (Mt Sylvia Kleensorb)

Tony

[shibui]

Eliass,
You should be able to use any potting mix in a poly box. The bigger the container the less critical it is to have perfect mix. I'd go in and buy a mid to premium range mix and use it as it is. I've used the terracotta and tub mix which is formulated for larger pots and works really well but its at the higher price end.

Whenever you are working with a new mix or different container it is important to carefully monitor the water as different mixes drain at different rates or may retain more water than you're used to.

Most nurseries (including B) also sell a commercial bonsai mix in small and large bags that might be worth checking.

The cacti and succulent mix sold at most nurseries is virtually the same as bonsai mix and one of our members uses it successfully.

Commercial mixes usually have the minimum amount of slow release fert added so you will need to add slow release pellets or feed regularly to keep the tree growing.