Rick,
Since the 2010 discussion here, I've moved to Tapla's 5:1:1 mix for my containers. Since the wicking factor is so important, he recommended I start off with a 3:1:1 ration of pine bark fines:peat (I use MG potting mix as my peat component):perlite, and adjust from there.
This last season, when I dismantled my eBuckets, I noticed there was a LOT of water saturation of the lower 1/4 level of the mix. This season, I will amend further, and do some eBuckets with a 4:1:1 ratio, decreasing the peat (wicking) action somewhat. I will also do some eBuckets with a 4:1:2 ratio, increasing the perlite component to see if that will increase further aeration, and what effect/difference it will make on the crop.
I LOVE experiments!!! I'll let ya'll know the results.
Hugs, and keep posting here, ok?
Linda
