| Author | Content |
philipw2
Chevy Chase, MD
May 09, 2008
05:39 PM Post #4930106
| I use the crystals when I plant shrubs and other valuable plants in my yard which is dominated by dry shade. The result is that my shrubs rarely exhibit wilting etc.
I soak my crystals ahead of time. That way they will not compete with the plant for moisture and they expand more fully. (This last claim I remember from an article in Horticulture or some other garden rag from 15-20 years ago.)
Glad to read your article. I have been using way too much of this stuff. I'll remember for the future. $$$
Thanks for the pointers. |
critterologist
Frederick, MD
(Zone 6b)
May 09, 2008
06:23 PM Post #4930248
| Presoaking is also a good way to see just how many crystals you're really adding. Good point! |
Soulja
Louisville, KY
May 10, 2008
06:51 PM Post #4934064
| great point, and Great Article! I have been waiting for all that info on that subject laid out just like that.
perfect. Thank You!!!
|
critterologist
Frederick, MD
(Zone 6b)
May 10, 2008
07:06 PM Post #4934092
| I'm glad it was useful! :-) |
gardenwife
Newark, OH
(Zone 5b)
May 14, 2008
02:03 AM Post #4948831
| At one site, aquadiamonds.com, they said to soak the crystals in water for 12 hours, then drain them in a colander for 1/2 hour or more. Here's the page: http://www.aquadiamonds.com/directions.htm
This message was edited May 14, 2008 2:05 AM |
critterologist
Frederick, MD
(Zone 6b)
May 14, 2008
07:45 AM Post #4949165
| Too much prep work for me, but it's a good place to start if you're uncertain about the amount to add, especially if you're doing little pots where volume really matters. |
Soulja
Louisville, KY
May 14, 2008
08:28 AM Post #4949332
| What do you think Miss Critterologist about these and potential roles for upside down tomatoes growing from an arbor barrels, which need to be watered very slowly? I'm trying different systems for watering them like hanging cups over the individual plants with tiny holes poked in the bottoms for slow delivery, to Aqua Globes (for gosh sakes)! I'm not sure I trust those... some empty fast and some slower...
I know these Watersorb crystals which I ordered just after reading your article can help but for now, any watering advice regarding these... maybe plants in the top to absorb heavy rain, or keep the tops covered like they are now and rely on the crystals to distribute moisture... any sort of drip systems you all know of...
I can't logistically stand on the ladder for an hour dripping drops on these dry pots... ; ) |
gardenwife
Newark, OH
(Zone 5b)
May 14, 2008
11:02 AM Post #4949944
| Oooh, I would think those would work great for the upside-down planters. Great idea! I might try one this year, just because watering will be easier. I ordered from WaterSorb directly last night and I'm stoked. LOL |
critterologist
Frederick, MD
(Zone 6b)
May 14, 2008
11:30 AM Post #4950038
| I haven't tried the upside down planters. But when I want to water a pot really thoroughly, I add smaller amounts of water repeatedly, to give the crystals a chance to soak it up rather the excess rather than just having it run through. That gives the pot a sort of reservoir of extra moisture in the expanded crystals. |
