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Posted by Chris (U7536226) on Tuesday, 10th April 2012
This year , for the first time, I tried JI1 (Seed) and JI 2 (Potting On) as I had heard it was the best.
Maybe I'm unused to it, but I have had more trouble as the mixtures are too 'claggy' and heavy.
I have now resorted to mixing it with Perlite and peat to 'lighten' it up.
Has anybody else had this trouble and can they recommend a superior mixture ?
Thanks,
Chris
I find that JI needs to be mixed with some multipurpose compost for young plants, or perlite, as you suggest. I don't think there is a perfect compost for everyone - it's a case of finding what suits you.
I tried a branded JI no 1 a couple of yrs ago & was very disappointed with the results.
I now use B&Q's seed/cuttings compost & find it absolutely fine. Still use JI2 for ricking out seedlings/potting on though. J.
You can sow seeds in a totally fertilizer-free medium like vermiculite / sand / peat mix. There is enough nutrient in the seed capsule to get them going. JI No1 has practically no fertilizer, so you are paying a lot more than you need to for this first germination stage.
For pricking out / potting on I just use MP compost, as I don't expect the plants to be in it for more than 6 weeks. For one-season potting out like geraniums and begonias I use MP compost, and feed regularly with liquid fertilizer after 6 weeks, by which time the fertilizer in the compost will have been exhausted.
I only use John Innes No3 for plants that are going to stay in the compost for more than a season, such as hardy fuchsias, Japanese maples etc. It contains long lasting nutrients from the loam, and it is heavy so gives more stability against the wind.
Hi Chris
I have experienced the same problems as yourself,I am going back to MP which I have used for years without a problem,I guess you live and learn.
regards
Mike 14
Thanks all.
I thought it was my incompetencet. I'll go back to using MP Compost then !
Thanks again for everybodys help !
Chris
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