Hi Lena,

I appreciate the input. Per your questions:

1) The 2.1 Turface/Granite mix appears to have quite decent water retention built in, plus I water often as to discourage thirstiness. Overall, I am pleased with its performance and ultra clean looks! What mix do you use and/or suggest (photos)?

2) I fertilize very weakly about every 2nd watering (~1/4 full strength). Watering is usually needed after every 3 or 4 days. On other posts, I previously read that 1 TBSP vinegar per gallon was ideal if using municipal water with higher pH (mine tested around 7.6). With Turface having a pH around 6.0-6.2, and granite coming in around the same, its slightly above the 5.5 that Tapla suggested for container culture.*

*Please note: I am no expert on this topic, hence why I posed the question. If it is ill advised, I will forego its use next time.

3) I used Osmocote time-released fertilizer with the hope that it provides a buffer for when I'm lazy about fertilizing or away. With a completely inorganic mix, I thought this would be a good supplement; as mentioned above, I only incorporated a very small amount. I use FP sparingly as to avoid the mistake of over-fertilizing, but am open to suggestions!

Thanks all

Like I said, I don't use this, sounds too complex for me & personally I think it's over-thinking things to be adjusting PH & fertilizing all at the same time. Sounds like too many variables for fairly simple plants that just don't need all that (in my opinion).

I use C&S mix w/ 50 perlite or pumice. Been doing that for years & am happy w/ the results. Fertilize maybe monthly in Summer (if I remember).

Lena

It's a simple recipe requiring only a few more additions to your watering/fertigation regimen. I'm hoping to see some progress soon and will share my results!

If you're thinking of using vinegar to fix pH issues, I recommend that you measure your soil mix and water pH first. Might be a lot of effort for no reason/benefit.

Mayo- Agreed. My post was to determine whether or not I was on the right track with this mix (gritty minus the bark). If folks have experimented with this mix and have any insight/suggestions on things to look out for, that's what my main question/purpose was.

I'm using mostly granite grit with turface and haven't had any apparent pH issues. The pH of my mix ends up being slightly lower than my tap water, due to the fertilizer I use.

Awesome! All with good results? I appreciate the assistance

Working pretty well for me. Have a sizable number of plants. =)

Only issue is my 20' tall Schefflera (grown in my living room under natural light) that is starting to show nutrient deficiencies. Been in gritty mix about a year now with no fertilization whatsoever since I was trying to control it's growth. It was just a matter of time and I've resumed feeding it very lightly.