Weeds in pots and soil or compost in pots

[xyz321]

Hi we got two large pots with shrubs in them. I planted them last year and put bark layer.

I have got some weeds growing in them. Can't use weedkiller obviously.. Just a thought can I put weed control fabric or gravel around the shrub

Secondly, I am getting few new pots to plant. In general do you completely fill them. Up with regular compost or do you put some top soil... Thanks

 

[JohnD]

Potting compost is mixed up to last about a year, after which the nutrients are exhausted. Garden soil generally has more mineral content and organic matter, so it lasts longer. You may need to improve its texture if it is very sandy or heavy. I like to mix up topsoil with grow-bags or garden compost for my pots. Depending what you grow, you may need to add a liquid or granular fertiliser regularly, or, if you are growing little bubs and flowers, make up a new mix for the pot every year or two.

 

[r896neo]

For any large plants that will be in pots for more than a year i use a mix of sharp sand topsoil and rotted manure.

Seriously how many weeds are there that you can't just pull them by hand? mulch with anything, gravel bark, grit.

Fabric would be a bad idea as it would reduce the water getting into the compost/soil