Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - Putting deck supports in cement

I spoke with someone today who said the best way to put deck supports into cement was to use dry quickrete. He told me that I could put the post in the ground and pack the dry cement around it. The idea being that over time the powder would soak enough water from the ground to harden. (Obviously, I have my doubts, which is why I came here.)

Anyway, I would like some advice on this. I was planning to mix the cement and pour it into the hole. I read something on this forum about attaching boards to the side of the post to hold it straight.

Also, is it easier to put the post in the ground then cut them to the height you need them after the cement sets, or is it better to cut and level them then put the cement in?

Thank you.
Roy,

Post are put in with dry concrete all the time. Depending on soil conditions it may take a while for the concrete to harden. Personally I don't like to embed wood in concrete, the moisture collected by the concrete can cause the wood to rot prematurely. I prefer to pour a footer [hole that was dug for post] and put an anchor strap in it to hold the post. This way the post is above ground and will last the lifetime of the porch.

If you sink the posts in the ground it is easier to keep them all the same height if you cut them after the concrete has dried. Bracing the posts until they are secure is also a good idea.

Its best cutting them on saw horses after the concrete dried and before you attach it to the 4x4 anchoring system you bought.. hinthint

Don't bury the wood in the dirt OR in the concrete. Pour a concrete footing and either set a pier block in the wet concrete, or extend the concrete in an 8" column about 8" above grade and set a Simpson CB44 or PB44 at the top of the column. Once the concrete is cured, attach your post.

Thank you all for the input. I will go see what kind of anchoring kits I can find. I checked with my city code dept. and there only concern is that the post are attached to the cement in some way.

Thanks,
Roy,