Pine bark in soil for high water plants

[maroun.c]

Considering using pine bark as water retentive component in soil of few trees I find need a wetter soil like maples and newly transplanted trees from nursery soil that I don't want to dry out much. Won't use it in my final pot mix when trees have a better root system.
Do u think I need to pre soak or compost it necessarily abd any tips on how to compost it if it's a must ?
Unfortunately no access to big amount of acadama so I leave it to my finished conifers.
Thanks

 

[Bnana]

As an additive I like it but what's the rest of your mix?
I don't feel the need to compost it, but the size is important, not too small, not too coarse.

 

[sorce]

I wouldn't worry about the composting part, if anything, that less N transfered to less green making for less transpiration may have a more noticeable effect than the water holding capacity of the nugget itself.

I think we associate "organic" with more water retention, but I reckon pumice would serve you better.

Sorce

 

[maroun.c]

My mix is typically pumice and clay balls. Planning to add the pune bark to it.

 

[Wires_Guy_wires]

I'm experimenting with coco coir. Seems to do a good job, as long as it doesn't dry out entirely.