What is vermiculite and how does it store water in the soil?
Vermiculite is a naturally occurring mineral belonging to the group of phyllosilicates. It has the remarkable property of being able to significantly expand its physical structure when exposed to high temperatures, a process known as exfoliation. During this process, the vermiculite occupies many times its original volume and assumes a structured, porous form, enabling it to retain large quantities of water and nutrients , making it a valuable addition to garden and agricultural soils. We originally encountered it as expanded clay.
In the soil, vermiculite works in various ways to improve plant health and plant growth:
1. Water retention: Due to its porous structure, vermiculite can store large amounts of water. This stored water is then gradually released to the plants. This can be particularly useful in dry or sandy soils that tend to dry out quickly.
2. Nutrient storage: In addition to water, vermiculite can also store nutrients. It has the ability to bind cations (positively charged ions), including many nutrients important for plants such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium. These nutrients are then gradually released to the plants, helping to ensure a consistent supply of nutrients .
3. Soil structure improvement: Vermiculite can help improve soil structure. It helps loosen the soil and improve aeration, which promotes root growth and prevents waterlogging.
4. pH neutrality: Vermiculite is pH neutral, meaning it does not affect the acidity of the soil. This is important because many plants are sensitive to changes in pH.
Overall, vermiculite can significantly improve conditions for plant growth, especially in soils that naturally retain little water or nutrients. It offers a natural and sustainable way to enhance water retention and nutrient supply in the soil, promoting plant growth and health.
Mineralogical composition of vermiculite
We have already mentioned above that it is a naturally occurring mineral and belongs to the group of phyllosilicates. It is a member of the phyllosilicate mineral family and belongs to the same family as the also well-known mineral mica.
The chemical formula of vermiculite is (Mg,Fe,Al)3(Al,Si)4O10(OH)2·4H2O. This shows that the mineral contains magnesium, iron, and aluminum, as well as silicon, oxygen, and hydrogen. However, the exact chemical composition can vary depending on the specific conditions under which the mineral was formed.
What to do about drought in the garden
STEINKRAFT BODENKRAFT PLUS Water Storage Pellets with Zeolite and Vermiculite:
This product combines vermiculite and zeolite:
BODENKRAFT PLUS water storage pellets consist mainly of vermiculite and zeolite, two minerals known to be excellent natural water reservoirs.
Here are some of the advantages that these water storage pellets offer due to their specific properties:
1. Moisture retention: The ability of vermiculite and zeolite to store water is remarkable. They can absorb and retain up to 50 times their own weight in water. This moisture is then gradually released to the plants as needed. In times of irregular rainfall or in arid regions, this can be particularly beneficial, ensuring that plants always have access to water. This reduces the need for regular watering and minimizes water waste.
2. Nutrient storage and release: In addition to their ability to store water, these pellets are rich in minerals and trace elements. They can absorb and store nutrients, then gradually release them over a longer period.
This improves soil fertility and enables optimal nutrient uptake by plants, which helps to reduce the need for fertilizer . And naturally leads to more natural plant development.
3. Soil improvement: Vermiculite and zeolite help improve soil structure. They loosen clay soils and improve aeration, which helps prevent waterlogging and promotes root growth. The improved structure also makes it easier for plant roots to spread through the soil, resulting in healthier, stronger plants .
4. Temperature control: Thanks to their heat-insulating properties, the pellets help protect the soil from extreme temperature fluctuations. They prevent the soil from cooling down too quickly, which can be particularly useful in cold climates. Especially when planting cucumbers and tomatoes, the soil can sometimes get quite cold, and the pellets are very helpful in providing the sensitive young plants with a consistent soil temperature.
5. pH neutrality: Vermiculite and zeolite are nearly pH neutral, meaning they do not affect the soil's pH level. This is important because the soil's pH level can influence the availability of certain nutrients to plants. You already read about this above.
BODENKRAFT PLUS water retention pellets are therefore a valuable tool for anyone who wants to improve the health and productivity of their garden , regardless of whether they live in a dry or humid climate. They offer a simple and sustainable solution for improving water retention and nutrient supply in the soil.
Questions and answers:
Question 1: How much of the BODENKRAFT PLUS water storage pellets should I add to my soil ?
Answer: As a rule, the pellets should make up about 10% of the soil volume. I like to add them directly to the roots when planting (two handfuls) so that the moisture and nutrients encourage the fine roots to establish a good connection with the soil.
Question 2: Can I also use the BODENKRAFT PLUS water storage pellets in my indoor plants?
Answer: Yes, the pellets are safe for indoor use. They can help retain moisture in the soil and optimize the nutrient supply for your houseplants. Potted plants, in particular, can benefit from a little boost, and if you forget to water them once in a while, it's not a big deal.
Question 3: Are the BODENKRAFT PLUS water storage pellets safe for all plant species?
Answer: Yes, the pellets are suitable for all types of plants. They are made from natural minerals and contain no harmful chemicals that could negatively affect plant growth. They also contain no binders. Incidentally, they are vegan, which I find very important in the soil. I don't want anything from dead animals in my vegetable soil, or indeed in my plants and flowers.
Question 4: How often do I need to add the BODENKRAFT PLUS water storage pellets to my soil?
Answer: That depends on the specific conditions of your soil. Generally, however, you should consider adding the pellets once per season or as needed to optimize moisture and nutrient retention. I also add them directly to the pots during dry periods when I notice that the natural water isn't sufficient or the soil can no longer retain enough moisture. I do it in a rather unorthodox way by making a hole, letting the pellets fall in, and then soaking them with water.
Question 5: Can the BODENKRAFT PLUS water storage pellets help save water?
Answer: Yes, due to their high water retention capacity, the pellets can help the soil stay moist for longer, meaning you need to water less often. This can be particularly useful in dry areas or during periods of water scarcity. I also think it feels good to use water wisely.
Question 6: In what packaging are these water storage pellets available?
Answer: For the vegetable and flower garden, we chose a tub that's easy to place in the garden and can be easily closed again. Most importantly, one that can be left there. I keep noticing that we want to use these products, BUT if they're not readily available, then we can't. Therefore, place the tub where it will be needed regularly. Please reuse the empty tub immediately as a harvest tub, mixing tub, etc. It holds 6 kg. I would use that in a 2 m² raised bed.
For agricultural use, we have 1000kg big bags . That's enough for 3 hectares. In very dry locations, it's enough for 2 hectares. We also have the pellets packaged in 10kg bags . Sometimes bags are easier to handle and transport to where they're needed.
When should the pellets be placed in the ground?
BODENKRAFT PLUS water-retaining pellets can be worked into the soil at any time of year. However, there are some optimal periods that are particularly suitable because you are already working with the soil at those times:
-
Spring: This is often the best time to incorporate the pellets into the soil, especially if you plan to plant new plants or sow seeds. The pellets can help prepare the soil for planting and ensure that young plants and seedlings have a consistent water supply.
- Autumn: The pellets can also be worked into the soil in autumn, especially when preparing it for the next planting season. They help retain water and nutrients and can help keep the soil in good condition during the winter months.
The pellets should be mixed into the top 15-20 cm of soil, as this is where most plant roots absorb their nutrients. You can simply mix them with the existing soil before planting, or work them in around existing plants and then water thoroughly to activate them.
How can I store water in the soil?
Application examples
We hear this question regularly, usually when we're directly affected by the drought. And when it finally rains, some soils can't retain the water and it runs off.
BODENKRAFT PLUS water storage pellets are versatile and can be used in a range of applications to improve moisture and nutrient retention.
Here are some possible use cases:
1. Home gardens: Whether you grow vegetables, fruit trees, flowers or ornamental plants, these pellets can help improve the moisture and nutrient balance of the soil, thus increasing plant health and productivity.
2. Commercial agriculture: On agricultural land, the pellets can help to make water use more efficient and improve nutrient availability, which can lead to higher yields.
3. Reforestation and landscaping: In reforestation or landscaping, the pellets can help improve the survival rate and growth of newly planted trees and shrubs.
4. Lawn care: They can also be applied to lawns to improve water retention and enhance the health and appearance of the lawn.
In regions affected by drought, soils can often dry out quickly and lose their ability to provide sufficient moisture for plants. This can be particularly problematic in soils that naturally retain little water, such as sandy soils or soils with high drainage capacity.
The use of BODENKRAFT PLUS water-retaining pellets in such soils can bring about a significant improvement. Due to their high water retention capacity, they can store water when it is available (for example, during a rainy period) and then gradually release this water during a dry period. This can help to provide plants with sufficient moisture even during dry times, thus ensuring their survival and growth. And plants experience less drought stress.
Furthermore, the pellets can help improve the nutrient content of these soils. They store nutrients and release them gradually, helping to ensure a reliable supply of nutrients to plants even during dry periods. This can be particularly important in soils that are naturally nutrient-poor or where nutrients are easily leached out due to rapid drying.
BODENKRAFT PLUS water-retaining pellets can also be extremely useful in troughs, tubs, planters, and other containers used on patios and balconies . These types of containers tend to dry out faster than gardens or larger landscaped areas, especially in hot or windy conditions, requiring frequent watering.
This also applies to indoor plants . If you underestimate watering, sometimes travel quickly, and want to do something good for the potting soil, then they are the right choice.
Experiences with vermiculite and zeolite pellets:
"Before, I always struggled to keep my potted plants on the patio adequately watered, especially during the hot summer months. They always seemed to wilt, no matter how often I watered them. After using the BODENKRAFT PLUS water-retaining pellets , my plants are much healthier and more resilient. They need less water and always look fresh and vibrant. It has truly simplified my plant care routine!" *****
"My garden soil is quite sandy and dry, and I always had trouble retaining enough moisture for my plants. After using the BODENKRAFT PLUS water-retaining pellets , the situation has improved considerably. The pellets store the water and release it slowly to the plants. Now my plants are much healthier, and the soil quality has improved significantly." *****
"I have a roof terrace that's exposed to the sun all day, and my plants were constantly thirsty . Since I've been using the BODENKRAFT PLUS water-retaining pellets , I have to water them much less. The plants are happier, and so am I, because I have less work!" *****
"I always had trouble with my vegetable garden, especially during dry periods. The plants never seemed to have enough water, and I was using a lot of water constantly. But since I started using the BODENKRAFT PLUS water-retaining pellets , my vegetable plants have grown much better, and I'm saving water. The pellets have been a real lifesaver for my garden and raised beds!" *****
Advantages of using water storage pellets with vermiculite and zeolite:
1. Less watering: Thanks to their high water retention capacity, the pellets help keep containers moist for longer and retain rainwater for a longer period. This means you need to water less often, saving you time and water, especially during periods of water scarcity.
2. Optimal nutrient supply: The pellets store and release nutrients over a longer period, resulting in healthier and more productive plants. This can help reduce fertilizer use and simplify plant care.
3. Improved plant health: Enhanced water retention and nutrient uptake can make plants more resistant to stressful conditions such as drought or nutrient deficiencies. This can contribute to your plants looking healthier and more lush.
Application of vermiculite and zeolite pellets
To use BODENKRAFT PLUS water-retaining pellets in troughs or containers, simply mix an appropriate amount of the pellets with the potting soil or compost before planting. The exact amount depends on the size of the container and the specific needs of the plants, but generally, the pellets should make up about 10% of the soil volume.
These pellets allow you to improve the quality and productivity of your plants while simultaneously simplifying the work associated with plant care. They offer a simple, effective, and sustainable solution for improving plant care in containers and troughs .
Conclusion:
The role of vermiculite in the future of gardening and agriculture:
Vermiculite is increasingly recognized as an important component in modern gardening and agriculture. Its unique properties, such as its ability to store and release both water and nutrients as needed, make it a valuable tool, especially in regions affected by drought or poor soil conditions. The tribomechanical micronization of vermiculite increases its specific surface area and thus its effectiveness, making it even more attractive to commercial and private gardeners.
In an era where sustainability is paramount and water resources are becoming increasingly precious, vermiculite offers an environmentally friendly way to promote plant growth, reduce water consumption, and improve soil health. Its versatility and effectiveness could lead to vermiculite playing an even more prominent role in horticulture and agriculture in the coming years, providing innovative solutions to some of the most pressing challenges in these fields.
