AusBonsai

Crushed Terracotta as part of a soil mix?

I bought a bag from Bunnings today as it was only $7.00 thinking that if watering is well maintained as it should be that it night be ok... At least until the Holy Grail of mediums arrives on our doorstep!

Thoughts anyone

Hi
It sounds like Scoria, I use some in my mix in the 3-7mm size, great for drainage
Here are some related threads,
viewtopic.php?f=20&t=111
viewtopic.php?f=12&t=231

this stuff is quite variable in its size (3-10mm) and due to abrasion is quite dusty so it will need cleaning and sifting I guess. By look and feel it feels appears to be course grained terracota pots that have suffered a accident. Some of the pieces are quite angular also. From previous threads (Pup) i'm guessing this may cause root division and may be detrimental or less than optimal to my trees?

I think being more like a clay will enable it to hold water better than scoria (not at all). Air porosity????? I wouldn't have a clue but everyone says is REALLY important.

I'll try and wash and sift some tomorrow and post a few pics for verdicts.

I have just started using this stuff and I am starting to think it is going to work real well. The dust sifts out real easy and then separates into 2-4 mm and 5-7 mm. The shape is great and colour OK. Trees love the way terracotta breaths so the porosity of this should be great. I can't say how it holds onto nutrients but it can't be all that bad.Also pH comes up neutral. I have added it too my cow manure bark chip mix with the usual trimmings of osmocote and dynamic lifter also some charcoal at the bottom of the pot. I might add grit when it comes to the conifers.
I don't think it needs washing just water heavily once potted to wash out any dust.
We have been wondering where it comes from? maybe old pipe work? You find occasional shiny surface.

Where does it comes from? Shiny surfaces? How many remember the savage hailstorm that devastated the eastern suburbs of Sydney in '96 bringing havoc to thousands upon thousands of what??? yes, old red roof tiles. And what was done with the resultant piles of tile bits and pieces???? Ground up for garden mulch and, as it would appear, soil fillers.

i think it will work very well.it will hold and release moisture really well. keep us posted on the results.

Oh just realised I should say check your local landscaper supplies thats where I am getting mine.