What in your soil?

[Kevster]

I know everyone has their own mix of soil and it's better than anyone else's lol.
But I want to know what everyone is using. I'm wanting to change what I use which is straight oil dri. It has worked great for me but maybe I can make it better.

Also I wonder if anyone layers different soils in their pot from the bottom up? My biggest reason for wanting to change my soil is because the top layer of soil always ends up dryer then a sand box. I know that is normal since its in contact with the wind and such. I just want to make it a little better.

 

[daveskib]

I use Turface, Pumice (Dry Stall), and chicken grit (growers grade) in different amounts depending on the tree.

 

[Gene Deci]

A bonsai buddie of mine who also uses no organic component to his soil covers the soil of his trees with a piece of mesh by making a hole for the tree and a straight cut to the hole to slip it on and off. I think any component that keeps the top of the soil from drying will be detrimental to your trees. It is not just that excellent drainage is necessary but air must also be able to get into the soil and to the roots.

 

[Ang3lfir3]

We use red lava, pumice, and akadama (kanuma for the azaleas) sometimes if we REALLY think its needed we will use a little sifted composted fir bark....

What you really want to focus on is knowing what materials are available at affordable prices in your area ... do you have any ideas what might be available in your area?

you might consider layering a small amount of shredded sphagnum moss on the surface to reduce un-balanced drying...

 

[cmeg1]

My soil is Dyna- Rok and Sunshine Advanced Rainforest Blend Potting soil.I had to build a rain structure from winter rains though.When above 50 degrees it is just fine though.

 

[Brian Van Fleet]

Akadama, red lava, and maybe turface. I also use shredded sphagnum moss on top of freshly potted trees and remove it after a few weeks.

 

[edprocoat]

I always add the ashes of my vanquished foes to the soil, err wait, this is not Skyrim!
ed