Hey Steve,

After an initial round of discussion and experimentation, a few years ago, I
became a firm believer in light mixes and I sieve all my components. I use
the common round sieve w/3 screens... not sure what the smallest size is...
~1/8"-1/16" I guess.

I'm with you on adjusting the mix to my/the tree's purposes. I keep a number
of 25gal containers with sized organic and inorganic components. I use
Naka's portions as a baseline (less mulch tho) and adjust based on
discussion/experience.

Central Tennessee, USDA zone 6a-6b, Sunset zone 33
Best,
/jhd

"Steven Wachs" wrote in message
...
I like to use Miracle Grow potting mix, sand, perlite, peat moss, and
compost. Generally in equal proportions for junipers I add more sand and
for pines
even more sand. When I repot. I recycle my soil. adding usually repot
every 2
to 3 years. I grow maples in cedar boxes I water all trees everyday. This
proportions works well with my watering habits and seasonal conditions
where I
live. I find it easier to adjust my soil to coincide with my watering
habits.
I am not losing trees. so I am happy with my set up for now.
I grow Japanese Maples, Pines, Elms, Hornbeam, Beech, Junipers and
Azaleas.
The bottom line is that you should use mixtures that suits your needs.
Sometimes it's by trial and error. Sometimes you find information that is
adaptable to your situation. there is no right way. there are only wrong
ways if you
lose trees

SteveW


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