New Grower soil mix question

[1guy1plant]

I have a bag of compost/manure, 1 bag of organic top spoil, 1 bag of perlite and vermiculite. I am planting in 3 gallon pots. I am thinking an equal parts manure and top soil and mix it with a 2:1ratio with equal part perlite and vermiculite. The only fertilizer info on the bags ( all purchased at home depot) is on the manure of 0.5,0.5, .05. First what do you think about the mix in general and will I need to start nutes earlier than with using a commercial potting mix? I am using fox farms trio for nutes.

 

[Muddy]

I would suggest about 60% top soil, 20% manure, 20% perlite. No vermiculite unless you are using HPS lights. It hold a bit too much moisture for CFLs, LEDs and T5s. Don't forget the dolomite lime, you'll need to add that to the mix as well. The manure should provide enough nutrients to get them started.

 

[1guy1plant]

Thanks. I will adjust my mix. I need to research dolomite lime. I have not heard anything about it. Again, thanks.

 

[F.N.]

I would suggest about 60% top soil, 20% manure, 20% perlite. No vermiculite unless you are using HPS lights. It hold a bit too much moisture for CFLs, LEDs and T5s. Don't forget the dolomite lime, you'll need to add that to the mix as well. The manure should provide enough nutrients to get them started.

That is great to know Muddy about the vermiculite and it makes total sence