What's Happening With My Soil?

The top part of the soil is dry, while the lower part is wet and packed in. It won't absorb water and it runs out of the bottom, what seems to be wrong?

guys are gonna need more info to help i'm sure. what type of soil, any ammendments to the soil, type of drainage. soil may be too compacted or may just be poor soil altogether which is gonna take alot longer to dry out.

I'm using Nature Mix potting soil: http://www.homedepot.ca/product/natural-premium-potting-soil-30-litre/917878

When I try to water my plant I get water running out of the pot.

with that type of soil you really want to add perlite or vermiculite in i would say 50/50 mix. helps with water retention and drainage. if you r soil is still very wet at the bottom and you r still trying to water of course you r going to get runoff you may essentially be drowning your plants you need to let that soil dry all the way through before watering again or if you can transplant to a better soil mixture that won't stay wet for so long. i personally use promix hp but if omri organic is important to you promix also has a organic mix http://www.htgsupply.com/Product-PRO-MIX-Ultimate-Organic-1-CU-FT.asp. i know that may not be an option for you so hopefully someone else with a bit more knowledge than myself can chime in. goodluck and happy growing

Islam said:

The top part of the soil is dry, while the lower part is wet and packed in. It won't absorb water and it runs out of the bottom, what seems to be wrong?

Click to expand...

I had something similar happen with a Fox Farm soil. Peat (sphagnum)-based soils tend to lose their airiness and wettability as they get old.
How long has this soil been in the pot? cn

Thanks for the responses!

Hey Mr. Cn! I've used the soil thrice because I failed the other 2 times.

I spent about 65 dollars on soil!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

ouch, theres your culprit i would think. re using your soil not a good idea.

Thanks guys