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Diatomaceous Earth and Hydroponics
Diatomaceous Earth used in Hydroponics - Due to the variability of
hydroponics systems and growing conditions, some trial and
error will have to be used to determine your ideal nutrient
levels and watering schedule. We suggest that you reduce your
watering frequency and nutrient level because of the liquid
retention of Diatomaceous Earth.
This is an ideal medium of
hydroponics! There are several reasons why--
| Absorbent |
it can absorb up to
150% of its own weight in water. |
| Capillary Action
& Lateral Movement |
it has the ability to draw water up from
the bottom and provide effective lateral movement of water
and nutrient. |
| Air Penetration |
Because it is multi-faceted and does not
agglomerate, the microscopic porous structure of the
granules provide aeration and effective thermal insulation
to the plants root zone. |
Hydroponics Uses
As there are numerous systems in
use, each of the sizes has its use, with #2-
Small (2mm to 7mm-3/16
to 9/16 inch) and #3-
Medium (7mm to 15mm-9/16
to 5/8 inch) as the most often used for this application.
We suggest that you thoroughly
saturate the Diatomaceous Earth for about an hour when first using it
(try not to rinse, as the fines will help provide plant
available silica.)
*** As various trials continue, we
will add specific recommendations.
Sterilization of Diatomite for Re-Use
After use, we
suggest that you thoroughly wash the DIATOMITE and then soak
it in an algaecide for 24 hours. Rinse again thoroughly
before reusing it in your system. Diatomaceous Earth can be reused
indefinitely in your systems.
Dilute Chlorox (1 teaspoon / gallon) can be used.
We
recommend using ‘Physan 20 ™’- produced by Maril Products
Inc., and ‘Consan Triple Action 20™’- produced by Parkway
Research Corp.
Please follow all manufacturers
recommendations.
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