I am trying to find a suitable alternative growth medium for flood & drain systems to clay. If anyone here can share what they have learned of using other mediums this would be a great help. I have considered using polystyrene or similar material, but as I have not yet tested this yet I do not know whether any breakdown would occur and toxify the nutrient. The medium also has to be a good Ph buffer. Any useful info will be very much appreciated.
#Moderation Mode I would say the clay pellets are the best as you need a good anchor for the roots to settle into to prevent the plants from falling over. To light a medium and you may run into problems. <a href="http://forum.growkind.com/forum/topic.cgi?forum=15&topic=37" target="_self">Moved here</a> (Edited by Herbsparky at 9:45 am on July 3, 2003)
GrowRox (Hydroton), or 4x4x4 or 6x6x6 Rockwool cubes or 6x6x6 CocoTek Blocks. No hydro medium acts as a "buffer" for ph. The Rockwool is PH high, but is easily adjusted by soaking in a PH balanced solution for at least four hours.
I've got hold of a sample of some medium that is silica based i think its called ceramis.....but I'll let U know.
Excellent choice! Any type of hydrocorn containing silica is considered TOP NOTCH! Yep...when it comes to Hydro...i must admit...Hydrocorn is the ONLY way to go!!!
i've used stuff called silica stones before. i liked them ok. they tend to float in the water instead of sink to the bottom like hydrocorn. becauce i reuse my medium, i now have Hydrocorn and silica stones mixxed together. good luck
My hydrocorn actually floatz!!! At first, i was angry...but then realized that floatin' hydrocorn is a GOOD Thing!!! Why? It'z much easier to clean them after harvest...watch!!! You'll See!!!
