[NepNut]

Hi Richard,
LFS is simply an abbreviation for "Long Fiber Sphagnum".

I see one problem the way you measure the volume this way. If you're using only LFS, then it's ok. But if you're mixing media of different weight and sizes, it's won't be accurate since every susbtance had it's own density.

What I meant to see how compact a media is by looking at how well drain the media is, it's simply to see how fast the water will drain out of the pot when you water it (not scientific but fast and practicle). If you water the pot and the pot just flush out from the bottom right away, then it's consider very well drain and not compact. If you water the pot and it took 30 seconds to 1 minute to see the water slowly trickles down, then it can be consider compact media with high water rentention quality.

If I were given only 1 choice to choose, I will always go with LFS as the preferred media. Due to other issues like Arvin pointed out using LFS, I would like to cut down the usage if possible. I think most people woould agree LFS is the best media to be use for most CPs but the problem is the high cost for good quality LFS, mainly originated from New Zealand. That's why people are trying to find alternatives, which is more sustainable and cheap... Coco media is actually a by product from the coco related industry and it's available abundantly in most tropical countries.

Another issue with using 100% LFS is when you grow your plants outdoor without shelter from rain in tropical countries. If it's monsoon season, you will get non stop raining for days, the 100% LFS media will be too wet and cause rotting in roots. That's why I have to mix the media and use pots with good drainage and ventilation so that excess water in the pot will easily drained out and evaporated.

There's no right or wrong choice to use what type of media but more importantly what media that suits your gorwing environment and your habit. The only concern I have of using organic based media, it's the fact that sooner or later, it'll break down. But maybe that's just me because I'm lazy... or maybe the thought of repotting hundreds of pots every 6 months to 9 months it's just too much .... LOL

You mention you planned to water only once a week? I'm guessing you're keep your neps in an enclosed area?