You have to talk their language -- "field conditioner" -- not "bonsai soil".


The label on Schultz Soil Conditioner specifically says it is for bonsai.

The problem I have is finding suitable material for the non-organic,
non-water absorbing, component -- "course sand". In my area, I can easily find
particle sizes that are under 1/16" inch (too small), or over 1/4" (too big).
No one seems to have anything in the 1/8" to 3/16" range.

Depending on where you live, chicken grit is perfect. Just make sure you are
getting crushed granite, not crushed limestone. For regular mix, ask for the
starter grit. For conifer mix, I use grower grit or turkey grit.
Iris,
Central NY, Zone 5a, Sunset Zone 40
"If we see light at the end of the tunnel, It's the light of the oncoming
train."
Robert Lowell (1917-1977)