Do I need to re-add peat moss to my re used super soil everytime?

NugHeuser

Well-Known Member
I'm ready to start a new batch of soil and have a bunch of used soil that has went through two cycles. The first being simple fox farm ocean forest and the second run I added one part each of peat moss, ewc, and perlite.

I just read that it's a good idea to reintroduce ewc each run which is common sense but made me wonder if it's even necessary to add peat moss each time, that stuff really shouldnt break down and degrade much right? Maybe reapply every few runs?

Also since I'm here, I've read that gypsum is very important in a good super soil, how much gypsum do you guys add to your mix? I read that if you over do it then it gives a really bad taste to the bud.

Was hoping to start a new batch of soil tonight, I appreciate any help!
 

NugHeuser

Well-Known Member
I can't see a reason to add it unless you need to bulk out your soil... Shit lasts a long time.
Yeah that's what I was kind of thinking. Never really thought about it until today though since now I'm ready to re mix.

The plants are loving what I mixed for the first run, I'm a little surprised I got it right the first try. I'm only changing one thing this go and that's adding gypsum.

Do you use gypsum in your mix? If so what ratio do you use with it per cu.ft of soil?
 

Wetdog

Well-Known Member
You got it right with the "every few times" thought. Peat does break down, but not all that fast. If you do though, don't forget to lime accordingly, it does get more acidic as it breaks down. I'll do a soil pH test every other run just to get an idea of where the pH is at. One of those pool water test strips is good enough for this.

It does seem to get denser with each run and I add a blend of perlite and pine bark mulch to lighten it up some. It's a feel thing and you'll have to play that by ear.

For the gypsum I add ~1/2cup/cf to the mix and do a light top dress a couple times during the run. ~1/4 cup for a 20gal container, light.

HTH

Wet
 
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