Hi all. So this is my first year of delving into figdom. I am trying to set up a couple of SIPs for some of my larger trees. My problem is what soil to use. I have used the search feature and to be honest the more I read the more confused I become. I really feel I need a degree in agriculture or micro biology, neither of which I possess. My question, is there a mix, which I can use and easily find in which I can plant my figs in and have them grow. Maybe not the best mix but something that won't break the bank or jumble my brain mixing. Thanks in advance, this old dog is to old for new tricks.

Search user AscPete for all things soil.. He's extremely helpful and knowledgeable on soil types and mixtures and much more

But here's a shortcut. Listed are all the soil/soiless type that have the properties you need for a SIP

http://earthbox.com/approved-for-earthbox

Here's a good link on potting mixes including SIP mixes.

http://www.ourfigs.com/forum/figs-home/11847-successful-potting-mix-recipes

Sub Irrigated Planters (SIPs)
BillsFigs: 100% Mushroom Compost
Miracle-Gro: 85% - 15% (peat - perlite)
Pro-Mix BX: 85% - 15% (peat - perlite)
4-2-1-1: 50% - 25% - 12.5% - -12.5% (pine bark - peat - perlite - calcined clay)

For just a few figs I like 50% Pro Mix HP and 50% Pine Bark Fines. Both are available at my local Lowes store. PBF are sold under the label "soil conditioner" Remember you need to add fertilizer (not too much nitrogen) and lime. (Soil conditioner has lime already added.) good luck and have fun.

Thanks guys great info. Think I use the 85/15 miracle gro.

Follow Aaron's advice. You might add a little compost or worm castings, and I always add some mineral content on top every year.

Seriously check out the link that Don mentions in post #3. Take Pete's advise seriously, he is a master. It is the definitive thread on SIP soils. It is all there including my thoughts on the subject, as I use 100% mushroom compost in all my SIP's.

I personally use 2/3 miracle potting soil and 1/3 sand in pots. Sand will help roots grow faster and sand is heavier which will anchor against heavy winds so the pot won't topple over. I also use tree tone for fertilizer. I use to grow olive trees but, they really aren't for my zone. Type in " meditearranean in Mayfair" in google. growing Galicia negra, martinenca rimada, sweet joy/ Syrian type, markopoulou ( Greek). Rooting peloponniaiaka aspra,Genonese Nero, Maroc noir,ohra tabahanosika , bordissot negra rimada and paratjal rimada. Philadelphia,P.A. 6B

I don't know how much mushroom compost costs but that has the highest ratings.  If you live near a mushroom grower you could probably get it for free.  If you have to move those pots indoors for the winter you may end up sorry you used sand during the change of seasons.  Perlite has much less weight.  There are advantages and disadvantages to that  :)

Pino, when I first had my house built I had 20 yards of mushroom compost dropped into my garden area. In the early years the veges grew like gangbusters. Gradually as the compost started to break down I had to start admending the garden. The mushroom farm near us has since closed shop. If it was still there I would certainly replenish. IMO. Your decision.