Inert Grow Media for Plant Cultivation

October 21, 2009

Hydroponic Systems Staff Hydroponic Supplies

Lots of growers prefer the use of inert growing medium when planting indoors. Growing materials can be any number of substances, as long as they allow root system exposure to water and oxygen, are not degraded by moisture, do not hold pests, and can be utilized by root system for stability they should function. Growth mediums can either be organic mediums found in the nature or commercially created. Some of the most popular organic mediums include perlite, rock wool, diahydro, coir, and wood fiber although there are literally hundreds of materials that could be used.

Perlite is one of the most popular inert mediums utilized in hydroponic gardening. It is volcanic rock which is transformed into lightweight pebbles through a heating process. Perlite can be used as the only cultivation material for plants or mixed with dirt to decrease soil concentrations. It is able to contain a big volume of air and could be used for plants with root systems that require fresh air. Perlite is a mixture of granite, obsidian, pumice, and basalt rocks that have been fused during volcanic activity in a event called Fusionic Metamorphosis.

Rock wool is one of the many popular cultivation mediums for soilless gardens. It is an inert compound which is created by molten mineral substances. It is a fibrous material and exceedingly efficient in moving mineral water to root systems. Growers have used rock wool successfully in drainage and recirculated methods.

Diahydro is a kind of rock that is produced naturally in nature and is a result of the fossilized remains of diatom. Diahydro is especially helpful effective with species of crops which require high ratios of silica. Diahydro could be up to 94% silica that is helpful by flowers for developing strong cell walls and structures.

Coir, also called coco peat, is the material which remains after the fibers are removed from coconut shells. Coco peat is a totally organic material and does not undergo any treatment. It could be utilized by gardeners for a number of different herb types and indoor methods.

Wood fiber is a organic material that can be utilized as a growing medium. It is a extremely stable medium that keeps its structure for a long time. It is an organic substance and so care should be taken that it is kept free of disease, pests, or fungus.

Irrigation is one of the most important aspects of any hydroponics.No matter the growing material used it is vital that it provides enough mineral delivery and drainage for whichever flowers being planted. Mediums are normally chosen specifically for their ability to function with the irrigation method being utilized. It is a crucial that all mediums are thoroughly cleaned and sterilized before planting.