Horticulture - Growing media

The type of growing media used varies with its application.

Our basic mixes are:

Seed mix: Vermiculite, coarse river sand (2:1)
Cutting mix: Perlite, coir (9:1 in winter or 5:1 in summer)
Potting mix: Commercial potting mix with trace elements. Free draining mix of composted pine bark and coarse river sand (90:10 or 95:5). Has a high air filled porosity (15 to 20%) for good aeration and drainage. The potting mix is pasteurised in the nursery before use.
Glasshouse plant beds: Decomposed granite / coarse river sand, composted pine bark fines (50:50)
Glasshouse orchids in pots: Coco chips, pine bark nuggets, charcoal
Glasshouse epiphytes (includes orchids): Redwood bark, charcoal (60:40). Sometimes a small percent of diatomaceous earth. The epiphytes are mounted on tree fern slabs or cork bark boards using panty-hose
Permanent Pots: Commercial potting mix of composted pine bark, coarse river sand and coir. Has a high air filled porosity for good aeration and drainage. The mix is pasteurised in the nursery before use
Open ground: The existing soil, which may be improved
Agar: Seed bank germination media
Filter paper: Seed bank germination media