The famous plant breeder Luther Burbank planted millions of seeds over his lengthy career. This is his favorite potting mix. Seeds were started in flats then transplanted to experimental gardens in Santa Rosa and Sebastopol.

50% coarse sand

40% topsoil = rotted turf or forest soil

10% peat moss

1% to 2% bone meal

Total = 101% to 102% by volume

Mix until uniform

For 1 bushel = 8 gallons use 1.25 to 2.5 cups of bone meal

[Original formula dated 1914 from Luther Burbank, Santa Rosa, California]

Related Publications:  Burbank’s Grafting Wax; Cow Manure Potting Soil; Dutch Potting Soil; Hot versus Cold Composting.

Would You Like to Know More?  For more information on greenhouse management and potting soils, please visit: www.worldagriculturesolutions.com – or – send an e-mail to: worldagriculturesolutions@gmail.com – or – send your questions to: Eric Koperek, Editor, World Agriculture Solutions, 413 Cedar Drive, Moon Township, Pennsylvania 15108 United States of America.

About the Author:  Mr. Koperek is a plant breeder who farms in Pennsylvania during summer and Florida over winter. (Growing 2 generations yearly speeds development of new crop varieties).

Index Terms:  Greenhouse Management; Potting Soils.

Original Publication Date:  April 2008, Meyersdale, Pennsylvania.

Update:  October 2023, Evans City, Pennsylvania.