Use your entire pot.

[namvet25]

I see way to many new growers not filling there pots with enough mix and therefor losing valuable space for more roots to form. Make sure when you fill your pots you tap the pots or lift and drop them a couple times to settle the mix in.The mix will always settle after several waterings so you are cheating your plants of more grow space and larger root balls.You can also fill pots to the top then water them before you plant and this will settle the mix,than you can add a little more mix to top of your pot with maybe a inch or so of water space left on top not three or four inches of wasted space I see so much of.

 

[Albert Eimstoned]

Also if your pots aren't filled up currently feel free to do so. The trunk will grow new roots.

 

[F.N.]

If you are planning a 5gallon grow or 40 litres use a 7 gallon bag. I like the settling I have never thought of that. But outside you need to be quick so you need some extra room. inside though take your time

 

[Darth Vapour]

Especially with smaller size pots, my first 2 grows (indoor) were in 1 gallon pots but due to settling and a short stocky plant I was unable to top up.

Great advice namvet

 

[Dark Matter]

Excellent advice nammy

 

[Trapper]

I experienced a lot of settling because I had know idea what I could get away with as far as compacting them...great advice Nammy