How to keep soil from shrinkingfrom edges??

[alaikiek]

I use an organic mix of Vics supersoil with 30% peralite and other natures goodness that I put into 3 gallon pots for final flower. By a month into I notice the soil shrinks from the edges of the pot. This leaves a crack around the edges that water freely flows to the bottom.
How can I keep the soil from shrinking like that? When it gets really bad I just add more soil to the top and fill the edges, not perfect and a little messy but it works.

Peace,
Alaikiek

 

[cough_cough_eer]

uuummmmmm....definite maybe, but

uuummmmmm....definite maybe, but

sounds like you might now be watering enough..Do the plants look healthy???

 

[Hundredproof]

i think its a natural occourrance in pots as the medium expands and contracts. jorge cervantes recommends simply running your fingers around the edge of the pot.

 

[Devilock]

They call it cultivating the soil. I do it the next day every time i water. It helps the soil from compacting, helps more air get to the roots, and makes watering easier. Be careful that you don't damage the roots when doing it. Only do the first 1 or 2 inches of soil or you'll probly hit roots. I use the flat end of a wood skewer and do it in a circular motion around the whole pot. Peace and *bong* :friends:

 

[Dignan]

Yep, what he said. It's very beneficial. Most beneficial microbes in soil live in the top 2-4" of soil. They need air/oxygen to thrive.

I cultivate about 1-2" down, max. And I don't think you can do it too often. Just whenever you think of it.