How to handle and Peat and Perlite heavy mix?

[ballplayer 2]

Hi all. Wanted to run a scenario by everyone. My soilless mix is composed of 1 part Fox Farm Light Warrior (basically a seedling mix), 1 part Pro Mix Potting and Seed Mix, and 1.5 parts Perlite. So this is definitely a "soil-less" mix. I am using so much perlite to help with overwatering issues I had been having. I know "soil" mixes have a tendency to "hold" nutrients. Thus a feed:water:feed:water type of strategy seems prudent to avoid salt buildups.

How do you guys think my peat and perlite mix will behave? Do you think I should continue with a feed:water:feed:water strategy? I just dont want to go deficient as I am at the beginning of flower. I am using Pure Blend Pro nutrients 15ml PBP and 3-4 ml Cal Mag per gallon. I water until about 15-20% runoff. Thank you for your time and knowledge.

BP2

 

[SeaMaiden]

Considering the nutrients and amounts you're using, I can see you needing to add a plain watering in there if salts begin to build up. I've never used a mix quite like that and didn't care for PBP, so can't speak on those accounts.

 

[ballplayer 2]

My final EC for my nutrient mix is usually 1.6-1.8. I didn't think that was that high. In any case I will take your advice and do a plain watering between each feeding. Thank you for your time and help.

BP2

 

[Granger2]

If all is well with your plants, stick with what you're doing. If you've had over watering issues in the past, be sure to inoculate with EWC ACT or a commercial preparation like Great White or Plant Success Soluble. Good luck. -granger

 

[OrganicOzarks]

Don't water as often. Problem solved.

 

[majortom9]

Feed every watering with 1/3 strength nutrient. Let it dry good between watering/feeding.

 

[G.O. Joe]

My vote is to water and keep watering with nutes until the runoff pH and ppm is exactly where you want it for that growth stage, every time.

Running with lower ppm and a lot of runoff and not flushing works out better for me than running higher then flushing. Everyone should try it unless their pot size is too big, and the medium takes several days to dry out. Even only 10% perlite (and a little dolomite) added to promix is enough for me to really hose plants down without issues (other than gnats).

 

[blue_lighter]

Good issue to talk about. I am have had the same issue. How often and how much are you watering?