Save A Small Fortune by Making Your Own Seed Starting & Potting Mixes: All the Steps & Mix Ratios!

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

My New Book, Podcasts, Amazon Store, and Seed & Garden Shop The Modern Homestead Garden: Growing Self-Sufficiency in Any Size Backyard. You can find it at these different locations... Thanks 4 the Support! Amazon: https:amzn.to/3Hfejue Barnes & Noble: www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-modern-homestead-garden-gary-pilarchik/1137153105?ean=9780760368176 Books A Million: www.booksamillion.com/p/Modern-Homestead-Garden/Gary-Pilarchik/9780760368176?id=7961563419439# An Autographed Copy of my book is at my seed and garden shop: www.therustedgarden.com/search?type=product&q=book My seed and garden shop can be found www.therustedgarden.com You can find my new Gardening Podcast here. I am doing 45 minute podcasts now with CaliKim called 'Gardening Coast2Coast Podcasts' gardeningcoast2coast.net/ You can also find our podcasts here on Buzzsprout www.buzzsprout.com/1846799 There are several options to chose from. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualified purchases. Check out my Amazon Storefront for garden lights, seed starting supplies, fertilizer, pest management, books and more! www.amazon.com/shop/garypilarchiktherustedgarden I have Neem Oil, Peppermint Oil, Sprayers, Seeds and so much more at my shop...Please check out my Seed & Garden Shop for your gardening needs at www.therustedgarden.com

[@beverlyboyce1041]

U can take the coarse vermiculite and run through a blender or food processor to make it finer.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Thanks for the tip Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@penelopegrier5073]

Thank you so much!!!!!! I was wondering if I could do that, or if it would ruin it somehow.

[@MLE.jeanne]

I thought about doing this too. From what I’ve read in some basic research, some vermiculite can contain asbestos, and I would think a food processor would kick up a lot of dust! I decided not to as a result, but if I did, I would do it in a very well ventilated area-probably my deck on a windy day with me upwind ☺️

[@beverlyboyce1041]

@@MLE.jeanne from what I've read that type of vermiculite was stopped in 1980s. No one wants to be exposed to arsenic too but its natural in soils, so it's all a balancing process.

[@SowGrowandSustain]

As always Gary, you do a GREAT job of teaching us how to improve our skills as a gardener! THANK YOU!!! I purchase the bagged vermiculite at HM and use a wire strainer to filter the finer pieces for my seeds starting mix and then use the larger particles for my potting up mix 😬

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Great idea Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@bettefreddy352]

What is HM?

[@lizadivine3785]

You can make a fine vermiculite by smashing a more bulky vermiculite with a hammer. It’s a little effort but it does work. Just lay it down on a tarp, cover it with part of the tarp to keep dust down and bang away. It’s kind of cathartic.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Thanks for the tip Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@OldManandtheSuperC]

Maybe put it in the food processor or mix with water in a blender?

[@penelopegrier5073]

That sound fun on stressful days, lol.

[@keyphabenyisrael3219]

For months home depot's website showed lots of 2 CU FT bags of Vigoro perlite available, but no 2 CU FT bags of Vigoro vermiculite. As of today I know see they are out of perlite as well. I'm glad we stocked up when we had the chance.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

The vermiculite is just hard to find. It typically is cheap and available. Just one of those things. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@joanies6778]

I buy organic seed starter mix usually, but they don't have it available early enough. This is a great alternative. If you have to buy the fine vermiculite online, be aware there are a lot of people hiking their prices right now. I just searched for one near me and the site has other items I need, so I will get free shipping over a certain $ amount. Otherwise, I have a long drive to find it and the gas costs more.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

It is up but vermiculate is typically very affordable. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@kimparker1752]

If you happen to have a co-op ag store close to where you live, check them for vermiculite and perlite. Many of those type of stores supply large growers and have large bags available at a decent price. If you live in the city, check outside the city area close to an agricultural area. Can be worth the drive over ordering online. I have a large type store close to me so thought I would mention.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Thanks for the tip Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@Hatfield_Country]

This video came at the right time for me, I'm in the planning stages for my garden.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Cool. Good luck this year Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@JennyNobody]

I have referred to this video a lot thank you so much for creating it.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Glad to share. Its a great base video. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@sorlenna]

This is super helpful, and now I know I might not need to get more vermiculite. Thanks!

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Sure Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@stephenmoberg8807]

I’ll be using that mix soon in zone 6b- thanks as always - enjoy your videos like you wouldn’t believe !

[@stephenmoberg8807]

Amazon has fine vermiculite

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Thanks and awesome on the fine vermiculite. Its scarce now but should come back in supply as all things are. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@wedtokerhimrarib3123]

A valuable money saving info.Thanks Gary.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Glad to share Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@anthonybarnes]

Thanks Gary!!!

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Glad to share Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@abrammatthew756]

What do you do with the soil when you transplant everything outside? Do you throw it away then the leftover used stuff

[@missourigirl4101]

Super how to video

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Thanks Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@jennsteeves295]

Thanks for sharing !!!

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Glad to share Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@colleenstinton-czuprynski9894]

Thanks GRy

[@colleenstinton-czuprynski9894]

“Gary”

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Yep. LOL Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@dawndawn6946]

Thanks, Gary! Will you be adding more autographed copies of your book to the store?

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Yep I mailed them to my brother. Should go up this week. Thanks. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com

[@melaniemohler3634]

Your videos are so informative! This one in particular is fabulous. I will follow your instructions. Thanks so much!

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Thanks. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@GreenLove1]

I am having difficulty this year finding Vermiculite in bulk. Looks like Supply Chain issues. Even ULINE does not have it in stock anymore.

[@yana1955]

And it can be pricey if you can find it.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Yep it is scarce now but prior to this year, it was readily available. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@juliewebber2749]

Thank you.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

For sure Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@kieutpie7914]

Hi Gary, I've been following your older videos and added worm casting to the mix and find that they make my seedings look so much better (stronger, leafier, etc.). How come you don't recommend people to add worm castings anymore?

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

That does help. I do that. Ill be doing a video on it . I like showing the base mix first and then more what I do later. I dont want people to follow what I does as a must but just understand the basics. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@sn232]

Daggone it! THAT is why I have fungus gnats...I thought I was being smart making a no-soil mixture with peat moss and perlite, BUT I had no idea fungus gnat eggs would be in peat moss! Thank you for saying that! What can I do to get rid of these now that indoor plants are growing in it? I even had put 1/2" of sand on top, to prevent just in case...did not help...I have them....

[@BrickTop06]

I regularly spray neem oil and voila, no fungus gnats.

[@sn232]

@@BrickTop06 Thank you!

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Yeah any peat has a good chance of gnat eggs. Good luck Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@sn232]

@@THERUSTEDGARDEN What can I do to get rid of the fungus gnats now that indoor plants are growing in it? Can't put boiling water in it now ;)

[@naturalliving2011]

Good tips

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Thanks Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@sueness644]

Thanks Gary! Could you put the vermiculite into a blender to make it fine grade?

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

I dont know but I dont think you want to be breathing in the dust. Earn 15% by becoming a Rusted Garden Seed & Garden Shop Affiliate. Some people are using it for their social media followings and some people are using it for a fund raiser for schools and sport teams. To sign up... use this link to our shop and click the MORE tab on the green bar and select TRG Affiliate Program www.therustedgarden.com/ Or use this link to go directly to our TRG Affiliate Program sign up the-rusted-garden.goaffpro.com/create-account Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden Shop (My Shop) for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise, and more at www.therustedgarden.com Plus support The Rusted Garden by subscribing and using my Amazon Store Front link when shopping for anything on Amazon www.amazon.com/shop/garypilarchiktherustedgarden. As an Amazon Associate I earn from any qualified purchases, not just items I link. You can also find items I use or discuss in videos, by checking out my Amazon Storefront for cameras, fertilizer, pest management, shade cloth, seed starting supplies, books and more!

[@Auburn7543]

I use 3 parts peat, 3 compost and 2 perlite for my potting soil. For seed starting I follow your recipe👌👍. I'm getting ready to plant up my seed starts and assuming my potting mix has too much compost for really young plants. I guess my question is, would you use any compost or just leave it out for now.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

For the potting up mix, the compost should be good if it is fully broken down. To be safe, 4 peat, 2 compost, 1 or 2 perlite should work. There are lots of ways to do it. Please subscribe as it really helps me & please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden Shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise, and more at www.therustedgarden.com As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualified purchases. Check out my Amazon Storefront for garden lights, seed starting supplies, fertilizer, pest management, books and more! www.amazon.com/shop/garypilarchiktherustedgarden Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim.

[@hildachacon001]

Excellent video. Thanks for the exact visual ratios! 😉

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Glad to share Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@lgarden7086]

Thanks Gary… great information. I find making my own soil mixes very satisfying and I think I started a couple years ago making seed starting mix from your video….I thought you recommended 6:1 but I could be mistaken at any rate I’m going to do 5:1 going forward. Initially it didn’t feel like I was saving much but now I have all the components for making whatever type of soil I need. I buy my bark mix at pet stores and that turns out to be a big money saver…the nurseries where I live sell bark mulch in small bags for big bucks. I use Earth worm castings and my own compost to add nutrients and fish emulsion fertilizer when needed.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Good memory it was 6 to 1 but I tweaked it. Casting are a great addition. Ill be doing a video on my classic mix I personally use. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@taylorshomestead3934]

Great, thank you!

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Glad to share Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@AjArpopP52]

Have you heard of the product Sponge ease? It’s coco coir in brick form and says it’s organic. Just wondering what you thought. This video is very helpful. Thank you

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

It works. I find straight core works but not as well as peat based. I am actually running an experiment. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@Garricher5958]

Would it be beneficial to add garden lime into the mix? I have quite acidic soil here in NC, so just wondering if the lime might neutralize the acidity of the peat moss, or does it matter? Thank you for your videos Gary.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

I dont but a bit of lime won't hurt. I havent found the pH of peat to really matter in this type of use. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@Caree82]

A neighbor here in NC adds concrete mix to his soil. A tradition carried down by family.

[@KingLeoTheBossGrowTentgoodplan]

Miracle Gro Potting Mix a yellow bag for each is $8.50 I'm in Roseville California

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

I see that one a lot Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@carmellayates2503]

Thank you Gary , when you add the perlite to pot up how much top soil and fertilizer would I need to use in my grow pots ?

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

So that varies too much to answer but I have lots of videos on making container mixes. I would recommend you watch. You can use this potting mix as 1/2 and maybe do 1/4 compost and 1/4 earth. Just lots of options Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@tomneal72]

Hi gary im a subscriber from England and enjoy watching your channel , the question i have is when youve made the potting mix what amount of fertilizer to mix in

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Thanks so much. Love interacting with gardeners around the globe. So this is none added. I just wanted to show the base mix. You can really do what you want to it but I recommend very low amounts fertilizers for seed starting. I typically use water soluble fertilizers nowadays for my seed starts. Ill be doing a video on amending it with fertilizer at some point. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@tomneal72]

@@THERUSTEDGARDEN hi gary i look forward to seeing your video on amending this mix with fertilizers

[@tomneal72]

@@THERUSTEDGARDEN hi ive just made this seed starting mix without fertilizer but how long will this mix be ok without fertilizer at what stage must i then add fertilizer ?

[@williamconnolly2152]

How long will these ingredients last in storage such as the totes you have them in now.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Forever. They are sterile and inert. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@blurrylights6344]

I bought peat moss in a large compressed bale. Any recommendations for breaking it up to get the milled texture you show here?

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

The compressed bail should crumble to something like this Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@crystals14acregarden61]

I found a huge bag of Perlite at Stockdale's for $6. Same size bag of Vermiculite...$30. The bags are 3 or 4 feet tall. Not sure of the amount. Hope you have a Stockdale's nearby

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

That will work. Vermiculite is priced up right now but you still save money. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@miriamromo105]

So would you still do 3-1-1 ratio if using pro mix hp or sunshine #4 aggregate plus ? When I mixed a 3-1-1 it seemed be stiff , compacted like a solid block when it drys like if it’s too much peat moss. .. What do u think about using a 2-1-1 ratio for seed starting and potting mix ? 2 parts sunshine #4(peatmoss&perlite) To 1 part compost 1 part vermiculite and/or perlite

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Yeah adjust as needed. Even basic earth can help. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@stefancook5745]

What about adding any "wetting agents"? I see that on the ingredients list (yucca) on store bought stuff I currently have.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

I just hydrate mine with boiling water to make it sterile. No other agents. You can but I just wanted to show the basic mix. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@kevincable4099]

Do you need to add lime for pH adjustment?

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

You can. I found for starting it seems fine. A light amount won't hurt Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@vengenaceearly255]

It's a good savings and just right for this time of year, as we are all using starting mixes. I also like your videos regarding top soil. It is a must have for where I live in Florida. Our soil is so poor and mostly sand. I will be using top soil in place of what most people would just dig from their own property. Of course I will be amending it like you do in your videos, just replacing dug yard dirt with top soil in my case. Also new this year will be using worm casings in the mix and alfalfa pellets.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Those are good addictions. Good luck this year Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@seedercastgarden3087]

how do you store the peat moss in a sealed container in the garage?

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Or tie it in a garbage bag Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@carriesearskohles7891]

Superb info! Thank you! Curious if you add any nutrients to this for either the seed starting mix or potting mix?

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

I do at times but generally start with a sterile mix and just use diluted water soluble at waterings and it works well Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@carriesearskohles7891]

@@THERUSTEDGARDEN that is very helpful to know. Thank you very much for taking the time to reply.

[@judymckerrow6720]

Would you use the same ratio for soil blocks? ☃️❄️💚🙃

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

I havent made them. So I am not sure what it takes for them to hold Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@DavinStewart]

Thanks for the great video once again. Timely as usual. Are you starting your seeds already? It's fairly early for your neck of the woods, isn't it?

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

I have herbs and perennial flowers going and some other things but big push start Feb 1. I have videos on what I started Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@tombeilman5579]

Have you ever used super thrive for watering seed starts, I used it last year because it came with the seed trays, had good results but don’t know if the super thrive helped or not

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

I havent tried that yet Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@Caree82]

Could you use sand in place of the vermiculite?

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Nope. V will also hold water. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@kennethmccallister3239]

I have been using your homemade seed starter for years. I prefer it to Jiffy mix (for me the jiffy mix does not absorb the bottom watering as well). I bought a large bag of perlite 2 years ago and have enough for this years garden. Gary, would you explain why fine vermiculite is better than the standard grade?

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

They both would work. I just found the finer vermiculite makes a nicer blend. I dont have a lot of evidence though. This is more for the seed starts. Potting up, the standard gardening vermiculite would be okay to use. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@angelaraum1545]

What would be a indoor potting mix if you wanted to grow herbs or small plants inside?

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

The addition of the perlite. Something that drains really well. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@wgc1261]

I am trying this! For making the potting mix, do you add boiling water to the peat moss and vermiculite - than after cool add the perlite? I just had fungus gnats.....so very awful! I had to throw all my herbs and lettuce out, sigh. I tried everything posted on youtube to get rid of them

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

You can add perlite anytime as it is not going to be an issue. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@faithsnowden9269]

Thanks for this recipe! Is there anything else you can add for more nutrients, trace minerals, or natural fertilizer?

[@jeffepstein4138]

Not needed to start seeds. Don't need dirt to germinate. Also don't want fungus that might kill seed.. Must keep moist ( plastic bag) don't let dry out or will kill fast

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

For seed starts I use diluted water soluble fertilizers after 10 days or so gemination. You can add what you like to this but dont over do it for seed starts. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@btchpants]

@@jeffepstein4138 I heard you killed yourself...

[@jeffepstein4138]

@@btchpants Now, when has the CIA ever told the truth?

[@OrioleHomestead]

Gary question, i don't up pot. I start seeds right off in 4 in pots and start over 100 tomato plants. Some for re sale. Should I use just this basic mix or should I start with an "up pot" mix with bone meal or worm casting in to start as I don't up pot ? Right now I use Pro mix BX but that stuff is getting expensive.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Hmmm. I would go with the amended fertilizers, since you are keeping them in there. Water soluble ferts work really well if you just go that direction too. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@flinchfiles8445]

Outstanding and informative, thank you very much. One quick question, when you stated you would boil the water to pour over it, how much boiling water? I tried it last year and seemed I overdid it as the soil was sopping wet, hard to work with. No brainer question to most, just wondered if you had a specific technique as I'd like to avoid the same disaster as last year. Cheers and thanks again.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

I have videos linked to it but enough to soak it well. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@flinchfiles8445]

@@THERUSTEDGARDEN Thanks, I will find it and watch.

[@penelopegrier5073]

From other gardening videos I've seen, you don't want it dripping wet, but you want it to hold it's shape when you squeeze it in your hand.

[@ellebee4833]

Hi Gary, when creating our own potting mix, do I need to sterilize? I recall with your starting mix tips that we should sterilze so wondering if the follow up step to using it as a potting up mix is to boil/sterilize.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

I do if it is peat based. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@suewiley1422]

What do you think about the seed starter that comes in "brick" form that you rehydrate with water? It's about 50% less than bagged and not sure how bugs could live it it. Just curious.,🤔

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

They all work. And compressed bricks are okay. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@stephenmoberg8807]

Burpee has a fine grade vermiculite-8 qts. -$12.95

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Thanks Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@amythinks]

Would that not be too acidic for some plants? Should the potting mix be cut with a third ingredient like compost? And if not compost which I cannot find around here, what?

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

You would think from what you hear but no. This is a base. So you can add compost into the potting mix and other stuff. Worm casting are good. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@amythinks]

@@THERUSTEDGARDEN Do you still sell the hungry bin?

[@dwaynelasater2350]

Isn't peat moss very acidic? Wouldn't you need to add some lime to this mix for potting up?

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

It is. You can add some lime if you want but I found it does well this way. When I amend it, ill talk about it. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@titanart6225]

Gary i’ve watched several of your videos on potting mix and seed starting mix, I’ve noticed you’ve tweaked your ratio in different videos. Do you have a recent recommendation on ratio of peat moss to vermiculite? Also I noticed you use perlite I believe for your putting up mix but not seed starting is that correct?

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Not really because there are many ways to do it. If you have more heat and drought issues, more peat or cococoir. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualified purchases. Check out my Amazon Storefront for garden lights, seed starting supplies, fertilizer, pest management, books and more! www.amazon.com/shop/garypilarchiktherustedgarden

[@AlChilazoLife]

No compost?

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

This is just the base. Ill be doing an amending video as you can really amend it as you wish and there are a lot of ways to do it. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@timothyshanley1132]

U don't use cow manure in seed mix?

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Nope. My seed mixes are sterilized with boing water. I might add worm casting after that but mainly water them with very dilute water soluble fertilizer. I add more amendments to my potting up mixes. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@Earthy-Artist]

Amazing, thanks you just answered a question I've had before I even had a chance to ask 🙂! I had been wondering how to make 'up-potting mix' and if it is different in any way from 'seed starting mix'. which I had been using to 'up-pot' before.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

This is s great base mix to be amended as you wish Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@doncook3584]

So tired of fuzzy killing my seedlings. Going to be using boiled water when make my starting mix.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Lot the top of the seed stating mix dry between watering Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@cynthiaroberts9639]

Do you add anything for nutrients in the potting mix. I know the seed starting doesn't need it but I was wondering about the potting mix for already growing plants. Thanks

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Not this round. I just add diluted waters soluble to waterings for my transplants. But I will be doing a video on amending this. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@neva-surrender]

Uline vermiculite is $35/bag with a 2 bag minimum, total $70 plus $30 shipping...geez that's crazy

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

It got more expensive ever last years for sure. But even at that price, it's cheaper than buying it premade. But it's a lot upfront. Please Subscribe. It really helps me. Thanks! Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden Shop (My Shop) for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise, and more at www.therustedgarden.com And please support The Rusted Garden by using my Amazon Store Link when shopping for anything on Amazon www.amazon.com/shop/garypilarchiktherustedgarden. As an Amazon Associate I earn from any qualified purchases, not just items I link. You can also find items I use or discuss in videos, by checking out my Amazon Storefront for fertilizer, pest management, shade cloth, seed starting supplies, books and more! Thanks & Cheers!

[@kellymartinez7178]

Great video. Thanks Gary! I just started gardening and I used your recipe for my seed starting medium. The seedlings look great so far. However, I just learned that peat moss is quite acidic. Any concerns about this? Should lime be added to the recipe to compensate?

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Add some lime if you are concerned. I used too but found it didnt matter much. A light dusting of lime in the mix is cool, Check Out the Retractable Hose I Use & Recommend from HOSELINK at glnk.io/0kvw/therustedgarden & Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@antoninomuscarella9052]

I sottotitoli in italiano????

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Hmmm

[@Lilhomeintheredwoods101]

CaliKim knows not to use peat moss. Maybe on the podcast she can teach why not to use it.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

I know why. And I use less nowadays. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@matthewkheyfets1309]

Noice

[@matthewkheyfets1309]

And first lol

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Check and check Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@KALSINFILMS]

Please use a tripod.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

To difficult to maneuver. Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@salvatorediprima943]

EMO

[@connieowens2982]

Thanks Gary!

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Yep Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim

[@lucyw.mcmellan7274]

Thank you.

[@THERUSTEDGARDEN]

Yep Please visit The Rusted Garden Seed & Garden shop for your fabric pots, fall & spring seeds, seed starting supplies, peppermint oil, neem oil, TRG merchandise and more at www.therustedgarden.com Check out my new gardening PODCAST Gardening Coast2Coast at gardeningcoast2coast.net with CaliKim