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Ferns in containers needing free draining but moisture retentive soil
Plantminded
Posts: 3,580
in Plants
I've got some small hardy ferns to plant up in a couple of oblong containers, each about two foot long, six inches wide and six inches deep. They will probably only be in the containers for a year before they are big enough to move into the ground or larger individual pots.
I've read conflicting views about the best growing medium for ferns requiring free draining but moisture retentive soil and wondered whether it really matters for temporary planting. I'm planning on making up a mixture of some leftovers that I have, all recently purchased, including MPC (not peat free - the GC was selling this at a reduced price to clear the stock!), John Innes No 3, an organic mulch, horticultural grit and perlite.
Are there any elements here you would avoid or some that you would use in greater quantities than others? I'm thinking 50% MPC, 20% JI, 10% organic mulch, 10% perlite and using the grit to top the surface, then I can clear all the empty bags away! Any thoughts welcome please. Thank you.
I've read conflicting views about the best growing medium for ferns requiring free draining but moisture retentive soil and wondered whether it really matters for temporary planting. I'm planning on making up a mixture of some leftovers that I have, all recently purchased, including MPC (not peat free - the GC was selling this at a reduced price to clear the stock!), John Innes No 3, an organic mulch, horticultural grit and perlite.
Are there any elements here you would avoid or some that you would use in greater quantities than others? I'm thinking 50% MPC, 20% JI, 10% organic mulch, 10% perlite and using the grit to top the surface, then I can clear all the empty bags away! Any thoughts welcome please. Thank you.
Wirral. Sandy, free draining soil.
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