Abstract: An organic potting mix is produced from sawmill wastes comprising predominantly wastes from the pinus genus either alone or mixed with other organic waste materials by a continuous process wherein the sawmill waste feedstock is comminuted, submerged in heated water containing treatment chemicals and then at least partially dewatered to a moisture content of from 15%-25% ww and a moisture capacity of about 50% ww. The potting mix so produced may be subjected to further comminution in an apparatus which applies mechanical shear under pressure to produce a peat moss alternative having an enhanced moisture capacity up to about 80% ww. An apparatus for the continuous production of the potting mix comprises a screw auger located in an inclined tubular body wherein the sawmill waste feedstock is submerged during travel from a lower end to an elevated dewatering end of said tubular body.