I've been thinking about microbes lately and have been introducing some Rootwise Microbe Complete to get the benefits for the root zone (Mycorrhizae). I tried to add some during transplanting from the solo cups but didn't really get to add it directly to the roots. Instead, I mixed it in some water and added it to the soil after transplanting.
Yesterday, I added some of that Rootwise for the auto pots. I mixed in 1 1/2 Tsp. for a 5 gallon mix and put it directly into the watering reservoir. I picked this product up from Build A Soil and also grabbed 2 gallons of their worm castings. I added some of the worm castings to the top of the pots and covered with a light layer of soil to help trap in the moisture and added a light amount of water.
The auto pots stay pretty well soiled except for the outer edges, that area tends to get a little dry. Which has me starting to think about how to trap in that moisture for the microbes to be able to stay active in the soil and the top amendments that I'm starting to add. I tried just adding some from the yard to help with that, I see some growers using rice hulls and that seems to be a good way to go. These tree pods are bulky and kind of annoying to work with lol so they won't stay for long. (see the gallery pic)
If you have any recommendations for how you keep the moisture in the soil, drop them in the comments.
