Basics

Layers

Bottom to top: drainage, a barrier, soil, then a top dressing.

• Drainage (LECA or gravel): spare water collects here, away from the roots.
• Barrier mesh: stops soil washing down into the drainage.
• Soil (a mix like ABG): where roots live. Deep enough for them, usually 5 to 8 cm.
• Top dressing (moss, leaf litter, stones): looks good, holds damp, feeds the crew.
• Water so the soil is damp, never soggy. Standing water above the drainage rots roots.

Try it in a jar