Hydrogel is a polymeric material based on polyacrylamide with a unique ability to absorb and hold up to two liters of water per 10 grams of the drug when swollen. The hydrogel is used for keeping plants, rooting cuttings and germinating seeds. Available as dry powder or granules. The polymer chains are initially in a compressed state; when water is added, they diverge and water penetrates inside. The granules swell with the formation of a hydrogel. Thanks to the good air penetration between the granules, optimal conditions are created for the formation of plant roots. This material is sterile and non-toxic. But it is worth considering that the material tends to decay, and after more than 4-5 years, depolymerization processes begin, with the release of toxic acrylamide.
In stores, the hydrogel is found under the name aqvagrunt и eco-soil.
Ways to use
In phytodesign, it is recommended to use it as follows. Pour 10 grams of hydrogel into 2 liters of settled water with fertilizers. After 40-50 minutes, you can start transplanting or planting plants and flowers. The amount of hydrogel added to the ground is selected individually depending on the type of plant, more moisture-loving plants. Hydrogel can be used in hydroponics as an independent substrate, in the form of artificial soil.
In landscape design, it should be applied as follows. In the greenhouse and on the personal plot: pour 10 grams of hydrogel into 2,5-3 liters of settled water with fertilizers. After 40-50 minutes, when the hydrogel absorbs water, it can be applied to the ground when planting seeds and planting seedlings.
