IronWood Needles?

[Mitzi M]

Hmmm...Is the soil part of S4C like a coarser, tan colored version of Hamakua or Pepekeo sugar soil? If so, I think that's probably what settled in a different layer of the sugar wash tank, and may be what is used now like a base course(?) The thing I'd look at is the soil texture. Does it drain readily and is there enough organic material to make it hold some moisture - not soggy? That sugar soil is a good "filler" that can add some substance, but very little nutrients. The organic part of your soil is key for building good soil structure. I haven't found a perfect mix out there so far, so I recommend mixing your own - well, basically doctoring up what you can get. I'd start with a load of thoroughly composted mac nut husks, add then completely composted manure and home compost. Our native "soils" are already nitrogen poor and if you add anything that is still decomposing, you'll keep even more nitrogen from your plants. It's a dilemma here because most of what you can have delivered is not truly composted. If you have the space, time and patience, you can finish it off yourself. You'll need to tarp or otherwise cover the piles and turn them periodically as well. Black cinder is the one to add for drainage. Red is reportedly somewhat toxic to plants, but I've seen stuff growing in it too. As for your soil, the proof's in the pudding - if stuff grows well, then I'd go with what you have and mix in compost when you can.

Mitzi