Lazylightningny
Masterpiece
I came across this interesting post on Jonas Dupuich's blog regarding akadama and soil mixtures.
Jonas is a known and respected bonsai professional based in the San Francisco bay area. Granted, soil mixtures vary based on plant species and locations, but he (as well as almost all bonsai professionals and established reputable hobbyists) recommends a mixture of lava, pumice, and akadama. I experimented for years with cheaper, locally available soil materials, but have settled on this industry standard. I sometimes mix decomposed pine bark in my mixes, especially in larger, developing trees to save on the cost of akadama.
The popular "Boon Mix" adds a little decomposed granite and horticultural charcoal to this standard mix (according to Jonas). I understand the use of horticultural charcoal (absorbs toxins), but not so sure what the purpose of the decomposed granite is. Perhaps someone can enlighten me. @Adair M ?
I also know that there are many here who feel strongly about alternative similars that are locally available. I believe I tried the Napa product years ago, but was too inexperienced to know it's effect.
I have learned that trying to save money on soil is not the place to be frugal. I spend the money on top quality soil material to give my plants the best chance for health. There are various brands and hardnesses of akadama, which Jonas goes into in his blog post. I'm still experimenting with those.
This is the one I am currently using:
The exception to this mix is that I use straight kanuma for ericacious (acid-loving) plants such as azaleas and blueberries.
Not wanting to start another soil war, but this is what I now do, and I feel it gives my plants a head start.
Thoughts?
All about akadama - Bonsai Tonight
Akadama is a fundamental component of bonsai soil. It is used throughout Japan as a potting medium for both bonsai and general gardening purposes. More and
bonsaitonight.com
Jonas is a known and respected bonsai professional based in the San Francisco bay area. Granted, soil mixtures vary based on plant species and locations, but he (as well as almost all bonsai professionals and established reputable hobbyists) recommends a mixture of lava, pumice, and akadama. I experimented for years with cheaper, locally available soil materials, but have settled on this industry standard. I sometimes mix decomposed pine bark in my mixes, especially in larger, developing trees to save on the cost of akadama.
The popular "Boon Mix" adds a little decomposed granite and horticultural charcoal to this standard mix (according to Jonas). I understand the use of horticultural charcoal (absorbs toxins), but not so sure what the purpose of the decomposed granite is. Perhaps someone can enlighten me. @Adair M ?
I also know that there are many here who feel strongly about alternative similars that are locally available. I believe I tried the Napa product years ago, but was too inexperienced to know it's effect.
I have learned that trying to save money on soil is not the place to be frugal. I spend the money on top quality soil material to give my plants the best chance for health. There are various brands and hardnesses of akadama, which Jonas goes into in his blog post. I'm still experimenting with those.
This is the one I am currently using:
The exception to this mix is that I use straight kanuma for ericacious (acid-loving) plants such as azaleas and blueberries.
Not wanting to start another soil war, but this is what I now do, and I feel it gives my plants a head start.
Thoughts?
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