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Plant Propagation Media
Guide To Media Suitable For Propagation
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Sand
Seedlings and cuttings can be raised by sand culture either to be transferred to cultures for hydroponic gardening or for use in the outdoor garden. By this method seedlings with very fine root systems can be produced; if handled properly they will transplant into soil readily and, given proper care, start to grow promptly. In addition, losses from damping-off are minimized, while another advantage is that if the seedlings are not too crowded, they can remain in the sand for long periods if supplied with a complete nutrient solution in the proper concentration. |
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Perlite
Perlite is a naturally occurring volcanic rock. When heated at very high temperatures, Perlite expands to 15 times its original volume much like popcorn. The extremely lightweight particles are composed of microscopic spheres that have a porous and broken surface that promotes healthy root and plant growth. It provides excellent aeration and drainage of the root system while providing a significant holding capacity for both water and soluble nutrients. Perlite is natural, sterile, ultra-lightweight, non-toxic, and virtually pH neutral. It is used for the propagation of seedlings and cuttings, as a soil conditioner, as a |
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| hydroponic growing medium, on roof deck gardens, nursery stocks, hanging baskets and more. To purchase perlite online, click here. |
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Vermiculite
Vermiculite is the geological name given to a group of hydrated laminar minerals which are aluminum-iron magnesium silicates which have the appearance of mica, and is found in various parts of the world. When processed for horticultural use, the mineral is subjected to intense heat, expanding it into accordian-shaped granules with countless layers of thin plates. Horticultural vermiculite is permanent, clean, odorless, non-toxic and sterile. It will not deteriorate, turn moldy or rot. The pH is essentially neutral (7.0) but owing to the presence of associated carbonate compounds, the reaction is normally alkaline. The pH, color and chemical composition of vermiculite will vary depending on the source from deposits around the world. |
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Medium grade vermiculite is the standard among professional nurserymen for most horticultural uses including the insertion of cuttings. Vermiculite may be used directly as poured from the bag for cuttings. Water thoroughly and stick cuttings. Over wetting is not a serious concern if container drainage is provided.
Use vermiculite alone or mixed with soil or peat. Very little watering is required. More seeds germinate faster in vermiculite. When used alone, seedlings should be fed with a weak fertilizer solution when the first true leaves appear. To purchase vermiculite online, click here. |
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Rockwool
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