Overwatering?

[jopsy]

Many of my pots in my potting shed have either got white powder on top, or rusty coloured powder.
I am wondering if these have been over watered-nothing or very little of these have grown.
Sorry about all the questions today I'm having a blonde moment!

[peterf]

Many of my pots in my potting shed have either got white powder on top, or rusty coloured powder.
I am wondering if these have been over watered-nothing or very little of these have grown.
Sorry about all the questions today I'm having a blonde moment!

jopsy,are you on spring, mains.or butt water it might help narrow it down.peterf

[jopsy]

oh butt
hth jo

[Allan]

Most likely you have a problem with the multi-purpose compost. It is very difficult to manage compared with traditional composts, too dry or too wet. You might have to try less compaction, but then you risk drying out. Maybe additional gritty sand could help,I wish I knew the answer.
I have abandoned the New Horizons peat free, it looks like floor sweepings, OK on some potting up but hopeless on small seeds.

[jopsy]

Hi Peter and Allan
The more I think about it the more I think it may be a combination of compost and butt water!
I changed my compost half way through planting up as I couldn't find the same type.
I'll see what type it is and let you know
Thanks for your thoughts
Jo & lively Lily

[jopsy]

did look at compost but immediately forgot
things are looking a bit healthier now