Anyone have xperiences with Moisture Control potting mixes?

Question

I'm curious about others reaction to this product. I can see how it might be helpful for planters that don't retain water. But how well does it work for planters that do have some kind of reservoirs?

Also, I had a beautiful purple verbena die from what seemed to be overwatering it. I believe I used the moisture control mix with that plant.... How do I know when to water them? I live in SW AZ, where temps reach over !00 degrees during summer months and I have to water almost daily to keep my plants from dying out.

Answer 1

They are HORRIFYING! Sounds like such a great idea, but in the long run all I get is algae. I tried the stuff with some sub tropical fruit seed and they all rotted off. The same seeds in a regular mix germinated just fine. The guy on the site below did a great comparison of potting mixes, great info. The problem with the reservoir pots is that the bottom of the mix stays almost soggy wet while the top seems dry. WAY too easy to over water and drown out the plant. I live in SoCal and we have the same problems with monitoring the watering in containers. Best bet is a well draining mix with frequent watering.

Answer 2

You need this soil, but I don't like resovoir pots...I just use clay plates (not pots)....where I am we go up to 110 F easy....so it is imperative...

and forget clay pots...they just dry out too fast...I love the fiberglas...decorative and hold the moisture...

I must spend 1/2 hr daily watering pots!