Hi, I'm propagating a lot of trees like Liquidambar, Japanese Maples, Bald Cypress, Pin, English and Cork Oaks but am having to liquid fertilize a lot. I'm using Searles premium potting mix and Seasol powerfeed.
Rather than this could I supplement the Searles with compost or composted manure? Say 1/5 to 1/3 depending on the species requirements? I'm not a perfectionist just need something a bit richer with better moisture retention. Thanks for any help.
You do not mention whether you are propagating from seed or cuttings.
When propagating plant cuttings you need the soil to fairly light and well aerated so the new roots can push through the soil. I add perlite to my potting mix to ensure good drainage and aeration.
If you do not have a misting system and you are having trouble with the pots drying out you may try creating a micro-climate for each pot using a plastic bag.
You don't need to fertilise until the roots have started to grow and the successful cuttings have been pricked out into larger pots then I would used a sustained release fertiliser.