AboutJames L. Crowder Expertise I can answer questions about soils, soil amendments, drainage and proper planting. I have extensive background in homeowner labeled pesticides (insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, etc.) and their proper use. I can also answer questions about the growing requirements of specific plants
Experience I have 37 years experience in the lawn and garden business split fairly evenly between the retail nursery business and wholesale distribution of consumer lawn and garden products. From 1990 to 2000 I co-hosted a weekly call-in talk radio program in Memphis, TN.
Organizations Garden Writers Association
Horticultural Board of the Mid South Fair
Publications Green Thumb Magazine - out of print
Education/Credentials 37 years of learning everday.
Awards and Honors Past president of the Memphis Horticultural Society.
Past president of the Memphis Bonsai Society.
Memphis Horticultural Society 2008 Horticultural Excellence Award
Question Hi James,
We just enlarged a planter (for bamboo) with castle wall blocks. Since my local landscaper was out of the black humus I usually use I bought his bulk "potting mix" which he said would be find for a planter. It has 20% worm castings, 20% mushroom [?something?], 20 % chicken manure and the rest a local soil blend. It is very fine (with some chunks) and will NOT absorb water! I already placed it in the bed. I tried misting it, misting with sun-heated hose water, forceful 'showering'. The only thing I can think of to break the surface tension is hot water from my water heater, but am afraid of harming the many rhizomes. Do you have suggestions? I don't want them to dry out - which they will do overnight if I can't get them dampened.
Answer Hi Berry, Here are a couple of options...
1. Till coarse bark into the top 4-6" of soil. I'd add about 2" on top and then till it in. You might consider adding a water holding polymer also (Soil Moist).
2. Fertilome makes a product called Aque-Duct. It's basically a soil detergent, which prevents soil particles from sticking together, thus improving drainage.
3. Use a post hole digger to dig a series of 12" deep holes. Insert a 12" piece of perforated pipe. Fill the pipe with coarse gravel to create a well that you can fill with water. I'd want them about 3' apart. Jim
