Horticultural charcoal in container mixes including 5-1-1

[bklyncitrus]

I was wondering if anyone uses horticultural charcoal in any container mixes and/or 5-1-1 variants, for Citrus or other potted plants. If so, what are advantages or disadvantages?

[mikkel]

I don`t know if we speak about the same thing but I used selfmade Terra preta for some container Citrus. So far it is a complet failure. No growth at all.
Charcoal percentage is probably around 30 %. Charcoal were soaked with nutrients for 1/2 year.
Probably it is a matter of dosage. At least pH value, nutritions in my specific mix are not suitable for Citrus.
No idea if it works at all. It needs further tests.

[bklyncitrus]

thanks just wondering, charcoal will tend to alkalize the soil now that I think about it....but the again dosage

[millet]

This subject has come up from time to time on one forum or another.  It rises its head then fades away.  My guess it will rise again from time to time.

[bklyncitrus]

I would think that especially low in the pot a small percentage, 10% tops, may be helpful especially if sized like the bark