Conclusion

Developing a potting media for a seedling nursery is a time consuming, but worthwhile venture. As this booklet has stressed, the incorporation of organic matter in potting mixtures should be a goal for all seedling container nurseries. Experience is the best teacher towards achieving a good organic potting media. It requires use of good common sense, trial and error, and patience. Effort is needed to develop a mix with the best physical qualities which provide for good seedling growth.

Composting will undoubtedly be an essential part of producing a good potting media. The composting process will take time to perfect for individual local conditions, materials, manpower, etc. It is therefore best to start small and simple until expertise has been gained. The production of quantities sufficient for an annual planting program can be initiated with a high degree of certainty of success. As experience is gained in compost and potting media production, the manpower inputs will likely decrease as more efficient ways of operating are discovered. Ability to assess material availability will improve and the composting period adjusted to availability. The goal of composting is to produce a consistent product year after year.