last year I was able to pick up promix from Holly out in PA... and yes every level gets some gels & slow release fertilizer.... start with some mix on the bottom... add fertilizer and some gels... plant the first row... cover with mix and repeat until full ... years prior I used MG mixed with peat and pearlite to make them lighter... well sort of.. they still weigh a ton either way .. but even with the MG... gels & slow release is my way