A Comparison of Peat/Bark Mixes -
PRO-MIX 'BRK' and PRO-MIX 'GSX'
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A Comparison of Peat/Bark Mixes - |
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Summer 2000 vol. 7/no. 2
A Comparison of Peat/Bark Mixes - Disease Suppression Associated |
In the last issue of Premier Press we introduced PRO-MIX 'BRK', the second PRO-MIX formulation to contain bark. Some growers have asked what is the difference between PRO-MIX 'GSX' and PRO-MIX 'BRK'.
 The main difference is the type and quantity of bark used in the products. With this in mind, here’s a refresher on bark. Bark is the hard, outer cellulose layer of trees (not the woody cambium section) and can be derived from hardwood or softwood species. Depending on how it is processed and the amount that is incorporated in media, the bark component can improve media characteristics (such as drainage, bulk density, reduce water retention) and yield excellent results. Now …more about the products. |
 PRO-MIX 'GSX' contains 30% softwood spruce bark that is composted and nitrogen stabilized. The particle size is screened to 1/2 inch or less in size and it is rectangular shaped, soft chip due to the nature of the spruce bark. PRO-MIX 'GSX' is suitable for bedding trays, small potted crops and most greenhouse applications. When in use, apply fertilizer at rates similar to peat-based mixes.
In comparison, PRO-MIX 'BRK' contains a partially composted, processed pine bark that forms a hard uniform chip that is 1/2 inch or less in diameter. This bark is incorporated at a rate of 40% by volume forming a coarse, textured blend that is ideal for small pots and containers. PRO-MIX 'BRK' is ideal for potted flowering greenhouse plants as well as containerized perennials. Due to the quantity and texture of the pine bark and coarse perlite in the formulation, PRO-MIX 'BRK' will tend to drain and dry out faster. At manufacturing, fertilizer is incorporated into PRO-MIX 'BRK' at a higher rate to compensate for the microbes acting on the pine bark. Because of this, we recommend watering-in plants with water-soluble fertilizer right after transplanting and potting. As with most mixes containing pine bark, growers should increase nitrogen rates by 20-40% above normal rates for peat-lite mixes. The percentage depends on the crop. Depending on your particular growing situation, you now have the choice of two high quality peat-bark based PRO-MIX products to satisfy your requirements. Here is a quick reference that compares the two products: |
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Product
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Nurtients |
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Weight |
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PRO-MIX
'GSX' |
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PRO-MIX
'BRK' |
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