You probably could use it for seed starting, but I think you would get more vigorous seedlings if you left it out unless you planned to transplant shortly after germination into another mix. If you look at virtually all commercial seed starting mixes they are fine particles. We know that the height of the perched water table is directly proportional to particle size. Having a seed starting mix that in mostly or entirely a PWT can be advantageous (but not necessary)in maintaining moisture for germination, but once the plant has roots, it is no longer desirable in any way. Root development (and thus above mix growth) will be greatest in a well aerated growing mix. The seedlings will grow, bulk up and establish a strong root system more efficiently in a more aerated, larger particle size medium. In the past I have played with 100% vermiculite and 100% (unscreened) Turface as a seedling growing medium and while the turface out performed the vermiculite by far, I wasn't at all impressed. Unscreened Turface will maintain a PWT and in the 1-3" tall trays I use for seedlings this is not desirable. For germination only I think the super fine bark particles will be fine, but after germination (once there is a root) I believe you will do the seedlings a favor by getting them into a more coarse mix ASAP. The difference in seedling establishment/growth is dramatic.

Thanks,Josh and edweather. Yeah, I've read Al's recipe so much I can recite it in my sleep. :0) But to be sure that I'm on the same page with you: 5 parts pine bark fines 1 part sphagnum peat moss 1-2 parts perlite (coarse) dolomitic lime (no quicklime) 1 Tbsp per gallon/1/2 cup per cu. ft. Following your suggestion, I was able to locate 1/2" hardware cloth; didn't realize I needed so had never inquired about it locally. Now I'll be able to keep the size of the pine bark fines under the threshold. But my original question had more to do with the "fineness" of the fines to be used and the wide suggestions I've read in this forum led to my question. Like you, many suggest using 1/2" (or 3/8" in some instances) down to dust. Then here are those that warn against using anything less than 1/16", citing the increased water retention as the particle size decreases. (edweather: I can appreciate your use of the dust to prevent too fast drainage.) Others state that the bulk of the bark be in the 1/16"-1/8" range, with more emphasis on the larger size, also citing the water retention concern, as well as noting that perched water disappears with particles just under 1/8" (I believe 1/10" was mentioned.) So I reckon the concensus is that there is no concensus.:0) Josh: my son-in-law has promised to teach me the art of uploading pictures, per your request, in an effort to bring me into the twenty-first century!! Depending on his success, will post the pics! Again, many thanks to you both. gary

Love your pic. Haven't seen quite that much snow in a while. Expected it a few weeks ago, but we didn't get hit like expected. I remember January 1999. the snow was to my hips. That was past the point of beautiful or fun.

You don't have your user page settings configured so other members can reply to emails you send via GW mail, so I can't reply to you unless you include your address or change your settings. Screen the Turface MVP or Allsport through aluminum insect screen. Use what doesn't pass through the screen in your soil. Use what does pass through the screen in hypertufa projects, raised beds, or whatever other use your imagination comes up with. It makes a good traction aid if it snows where you live. Al This post was edited by tapla on Wed, Jan 14, 15 at 17:37