akadama for fig??

[griffo84]

Hi,this is my firsty post as im fairly new to bonsai,but i have a couple of figs to repot and just wondering what is the best soil mix and if akadama is the best thing to use with some sand or there is something better,any help would be truly appreciated as i want to learn the right way from the start in this amazing hobby!! thanks

[BirchMan]

I've just repotted a large Port Jackson fig into 50/50 akadama and "bonsai" potting mix (Richgro i think). My bonsai nursery guy recommended this mix rather than pure akadama which i understand would be better for more dry-feet plants such as pines and olives.

I'm only guessing really so correct me if i'm wrong..

[griffo84]

ok cool thanks,does anyone know if ray nesci sells akadama and for how much? im making the trek out there tommorow morning!!

[Bretts]

I found the figs love the akadama. Have not used at 100% but only because I wanted to spread it out. They also grow well in practicly 100% dynamic lifter so lots of options with the figs just keep the feed up to them.
Sorry Ray does not sell akadama and wonders what all the fuss is about
Not sure it is sold anywhere except a supplier from WA. Search Arthur azalea bonsai in google and you will find the guy.

[kcpoole]

I use my diatomite / Zeolite Mix on my figs and they do well in it. Have tried Akadama, and actually prefer Diatomite.

Ray does not sell Akadama, but can be obtained from Bonsai south I believe.

Ray does stock Zeloite and you can add to a Normal mix if you wish, or you can try to source diatomite locally

Ken

[bonzaidog]

Griffo,,,,,Figs love a good open mix....depending on the size of tree you're repotting Akadama can be a little cost prohibitive...especially if it's a big grow box,or a tree buried deep,for ariel roots....a good mix used over here ..developed by some of the older guys is 1 part akka,1 part pine fines.1 part 2mm sharp grit,1 part coco peat which gives a good open mix,but still holds a bit of moisture ,especially when the heat's on and you're stuck at work! You can substitute akka with expanded clay if you find that all the akka has disappeared over east! ....Dog.

[Ray M]

Hi griffo84,
As bonzaidog said, Figs like a very open mix. I use Ray Nesci's mix with Zeolite and Brunnings orchid mix, (Please don't get this mixed up with Bunnings. I do mean Brunnings). In a bucket I would mix about 50/50 Ray's mix and the orchid mix with a couple of good hands full of Zeolite.

You will see your figs putting on growth almost by the day. They absolutely love it. Because the mix is so open make sure you keep the water up to them.

Regards Ray