Soil Compaction Question

[ScurvyKnave]

Hi All -

I'm going to be using a mix of FFOF and Happy Frog in 3 Gal Smart Pots for my first grow. Just waiting on the seeds now, got my LEDs today, WOOT!

Anyway, when filling the pots, how much if any should I compact the soil mix? I don't want it to be too loose and have the volume shrink to half the container size when watering.

TIA!

 

[shottafire]

Just a little not too much. If you push it down too much you are expelling all the oxygen thats inside the pot out.
Tender seedlings and cuttings will thrive with the extra oxygen.

 

[ScurvyKnave]

Ah, that makes sense - thank you!

 

[CO Finest]

I do a 50/50 mix of FFO and Frog. I also add 6 cups of perlite in a 5 gallon bucket. What I have done is fill pot with mix then add some water and let it pack itself. The add more soil if needed before transplant

 

[gwhiz]

Good info right here!