Basic Container Mix
1 bucket (2-1/2 gallons) peat moss
1 bucket(2-1/2 gallons) vermiculite or perlite
A half bucket (1-1/4 gallons) screened compost or composted cow manure
2 cups fine sand
2 cups pelleted time-release fertilizer
1/2 cup lime (to counter the acid of peat and keep the pH level near neutral)
Mix thoroughly. Makes enough to fill two 14-inch tubs or five 12-inch hanging baskets. Double or triple recipe for bigger containers.
How Much Mix Do You Need
Potting mix is sold by volume (measured in quarts), and most pots are measured by their diameter. To translate quarts of mix into various pot sizes, use this quick reference.
Container Size & Amount Needed
Pots & Tubs
8-inch 3 quarts
10-inch 6 quarts
12-inch 8 quarts
14-inch 12 quarts
16-inch 20 quarts
20-inch 24 quarts
24-inch 28 quarts
30-inch 72 quarts
36-inch 96 quarts
Hanging Baskets
12-inch 6 quarts
16-inch 10 quarts
Window Boxes
24-inches by 6-inches 12 quarts
36-inches by 6-inches 20 quarts
