[strath76]

Hi Ken, 'normal' potting mix if allowed to dry out becomes hydrophobic. This means that it actually repels water. This would be why the water runs straight through. You can remedy the problem by using a wetting agent (probably not the best thing for Nep's) or soak it in a bucket for about a day. The best solution though would be to do as the others have suggested and use a standard nep mix. If you use something with sphagnum or at least place sphagnum on the top this provides a good indicator about your conditions. Cheers.