Cost efficiencies of mixes

[Malix]

Just curious. Did you plant with 100% DE?

I think using DE or Calcined clay neat is problematic. It needs another good component or 2, like pumice and lava.

Totally agree. Same goes for akadama. I wouldn’t be my planting my deciduous in 100% Akadama either. Let alone my conifers or any plants that like to stay on the dry side. DE and akadama are too water retentive to be used alone. Both also break down with time so I like another particle Or 2 to balance out the mix. Pumice is my favorite with lava a close 2nd.

100 % DE is just asking for trouble IMO. But it’s great in 50/50 ratio with pumice for most dciduous. And 33/33/33% with pumice/ lava for conifers. Or 33/67% de/ pumice. At least these are good starting points when using DE. Imo

and to reiterate my finished and best trees would get akadama if I can source it.. Ymmv.