Home mixed growing medium, Pearlite?

[Max Blast]

I am currently using rockwool cubes and a drain-to-waste system but for my next grow I would like to make a change.

Is there any reason I cannot use a mix of Peat Moss, Pearlite and/or vermiculite for the growing medium? What mix should I use and what steps are necessary if any? Any precautions with such a mixture? Is straight Pearlite a better choice?

I just do not like coming out of the local Hydro store carrying a big load of cubes. I have no problem getting big bags of Peat and Pearlite from a local nursery supply.

thanks for any help with this,
Max Blast

Max Blast Reviewed by Max Blast on 11-02-2005. Home mixed growing medium, Pearlite? I am currently using rockwool cubes and a drain-to-waste system but for my next grow I would like to make a change. Is there any reason I cannot use a mix of Peat Moss, Pearlite and/or vermiculite for the growing medium? What mix should I use and what steps are necessary if any? Any precautions with such a mixture? Is straight Pearlite a better choice? :confused: I just do not like coming out of the local Hydro store carrying a big load of cubes. :cool: I have no problem getting big Rating: 5

[LOC NAR1958]

How much do you use ? Because the first thing your going to here about is that rockwool sucks and should never be use for anything. I have seen coco peat mat but not heard anything about it or soilless mixes. Peat holds too much water and the others won't hold up plants. If you can't get hydrotron clay then use lava rocks for gas grills and break it up to the size you want. It's cheap.

[Max Blast]

Carrying anything more than 10 to 15 6" cubes (rockwool) becomes obvious when you leave the store. Making several smaller trips is obvious too. Hydro stores are watched by not only Law Enforcement but other not-so-pleasent folks and I want to avoid all that if I can.

I know a grower who gets terrific results using Rockwool cubes exclusively. The 1" for clones and the 6" for growing. Very large yields in less than 90 days and extremely good quality too.

I am hoping that the mix of Peat and Pearlite will avoid the two characteristics you mentioned. Just as cement, sand and aggragate mix is much better/stronger than just any one of the components by itself is. (for making concrete)

Just looking for advice if anyone has tried this.

thanks,
Max Blast