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Grit or not with Ericaceous

TerrysWorldTerrysWorld Posts: 174
in The potting shed
Should I use any grit with Ericaceous compost with planting a Rhododendron in a pot  
South Monmouthshire stuck in the middle between George and the Dragon

Posts

  • fidgetbonesfidgetbones Posts: 17,618
    You need to make sure it is not alkaline.  Crushed slate would be ideal over a soil based ericaceous compost.
  • TerrysWorldTerrysWorld Posts: 174
    I use Bowland Horticultural Grit, unsure if that's alkaline or not and the compost is Godwins Ericaceous, again not sure if that's soiled based or not.

    I normally  cover any compost with this grit to help retain moisture and mix with some composts to aid drainage.

    But unsure for a Rhododendron, should it be added to aid drainage. If so, by what ratio.
    South Monmouthshire stuck in the middle between George and the Dragon
  • young codgeryoung codger Posts: 543
    I find the use of grit mixed in to the growing medium to be excellent for improving growth. 

     It  not only improves drainage, but also creates small air pockets providing more oxygen for root development of plants.
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