Comparative table of different mineral substrates

Comparative table of different mineral substrates

Oct 05, 2023Elisabeth Lachance

All rocks add drainage to the potting soil you are using. They improve soil aeration and avoid compaction, unlike sand.

Pumice stone

Mixed with potting soil (medium) or as a decoration on the top of pots (small) Captures neutral or very slightly alkaline fertilizer. Cacti, succulents, hoyas, lithops, bonsai

Red lava

Mixed with potting soil (medium) or as a decoration on the top of pots (small) Captures fertilizer. Neutral or very slightly alkaline Cactus, succulents, hoyas, lithops, bonsai

Black lava

Like red lava, rich in minerals such as iron, magnesium and calcium. Slightly Alkaline Bonsai

Zeolite

Has the ability to absorb water and nutrients, then gradually release them to plants when the soil becomes drier. Neutral pH, helps maintain the pH of its neutral environment thanks to its buffering effect

Chabasai

Very porous, it can store up to 40% of its weight in water. It doesn't fall apart. Contains potassium, magnesium, calcium and iron. Neutral pH, helps maintain the pH of its neutral environment thanks to its buffering effect

Kyriu

Rich in iron, recommended for slow-growing bonsais because it does not disintegrate easily and lasts several years. No absorption. Slightly acidic pH: 6.5 To be used combined with akadama for Bonsai

Kanuma

Due to its light, well-drained and acidic nature, Kanuma is ideal for creating a favorable growing environment for the delicate roots of Bonsai Trees. Acidifies soil, good for growing Bonsai trees and other acid-loving plants. pH between 4.5 and 5.5

Akadama Iwamoto

Holds water and nutrients well for sensitive bonsai roots. Cooked, therefore harder and degrades less quickly, beige. Neutral to slightly acidic pH between 6.5 and 6.8

Akadama Ibaraki

Holds water and nutrients well for sensitive bonsai roots. grayer, dried in the sun and therefore a little less hard. Neutral to slightly acidic pH between 6.5 and 6.8 Bonsai

Akadama Jirushi

Holds water and nutrients well for sensitive bonsai roots. cooked, therefore harder and deteriorates less quickly. Neutral to slightly acidic pH between 6.5 and 6.8 Lithops

In bold = In our house blends



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