Floating the Bark

[skirincich]

Hello,

Years ago, I remember hearing experienced growers describing how they would soak their newly purchased bark and then discard any material that sank to the bottom of the container. I was under the impression that the sunken material was too absorbent and might decay prematurely if used in potting mixes.

I bring up this subject as I am soaking my coconut husk chips in reverse osmosis water to leach away any residual salt. I have noticed that some of the material sinks to the bottom. My general impression is that this material is somewhat smaller than the stuff that floats, and perhaps all of the material would sink if given a long enough soak.

Any thoughts?


Thanks,
Steve