03-20-2008, 05:01 PM
The key to growing in cinder is keeping it moist (bacteria grow in it which gives of nitrogen which makes it a complete fertilizr when moist.) I like, for potted plants to have about 75% to 80% cinder mixed with whatever I can get my hands on i.e., compost, dirt if I can get it and I always use perilite and or vermiculite for better water retention. Same formula for growing in the aina ... create a puka, fill, water and plant. When I water the plants, both potted and in the ground, I like to use some form of fertilizer in the solution about every third time. Water a lot when its dry and cut back when its wet outside. When it's overcast and cool ... take cuttings from your best plants. I always carry a knife and water in my vehicle and if I see a plant I want a cutting from I just ask to take a cutting and most people will say sure. I have a beautiful giant yellow passion fruit which I originally obtained that way plus several others. Main thing is to just keep 'pumping' in the plants until there's not any room left. I've been in Black Sands for years with three lots and I'm still on the prowl for more species.
If you're a garden 'freak' like me this is the place to be dispite the bugs and the weeds!! (and giant snails)
JayJay
JayJay