I'm a beginner too but from what ive read they like a really good draining media. From what ive read the pros dont like peat mixes but my trees are in about 40% well ammended potting soil, 40% perlite and 20% earth worm castings. They seem to like it but you may want to wait on someone more experienced to chime in.

Eric

Yeah im almost the same with soil. I cheated a bit though, im using 20% perlite 20% sand and 60% of a medium to high potent Bonsai potting soil. Ive set up several different potting areas in my garden just to experiment with different types of media. Whats earth worm castings ?

Thanks

Chris