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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

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