Miracle Grow Questions

I know MG is usually avoided, but what about the MG Perlite? The Hempy Bucket Method seems interesting and I was wondering if this perlite would work or if they would have better varieties at the hydro store. Also, I have heard that MG Moisture Control soil is okay to use. Any truth behind that? Thanks...

Perlite is Perlite - really... I don't believe MG has a variety of perlite that's fortified with nutrients (make sure you read the bag of course) so it's identical to pretty much all other medium grain perlite.

And the moisture control soil is alright... I've used it for many things in the past - but only mixed with copious amounts of perlite. Without the perlite it doesn't drain at all, is very silty and compacts when wet... Your plants will show visible stunting after a few weeks if you use it straight up.

If you have a Wal Mart near you, you'd be better off going to their outdoor department and picking up mushroom compost, potting soil and a bag of perlite. Mix them (maybe 1:1:2, Perlite:compostotting soil) and you'll have some fine soil.

Yea I read the back of the MG perlite and it said it had a little bit of n, p, and k. Then it says something about fertilzer but doesn't really give too much info on it. It is probably just talking about the n, p, and k. The amounts are very little, below 1%.

I've attempted the Hempy Method before... with MG Perlite. Perlite is MEANT to provide aeration and doesn't hold enough water... also the MG perlite has too many nutrients in my opinion. Use 3/6 MG potting soil, 1/6 MG perlite, and 2/6 vermiculite (holds water, makes the soil very spongey). The vermiculite makes it so you only have to water half as often and it means less MG nutrients in the mix.

I've also heard of them using MG Cactus soil with good results but I personally think it would be too acidic although I have never used it. MG Moisture Control I think supposedly holds too much water and has too many nutrients.