Ibaraki Akadama Small 3-5mm – 14 lt

Description

Ibaraki Akadama Small 3-5mm – Suitable for medium size bonsai

Ibaraki Akadama Small 3-5mm – Akadama has been used for many years in Japan as a growing medium for bonsai.  Ibaraki akadama is graded as “Hard” meaning that it will last longer before breaking down and it will take longer before you need to repot your bonsai because of poor soil conditions.

Akadama is a granular volcanic clay-like mineral which occurs naturally in Japan.

Akadama breaks down over a period of time.  This help with the development and health of the bonsai.   When repotting the bonsai into new akadama the potting medium is normally free draining, allowing the replacement of water and oxygen in the growing medium.  This help with the development of new roots, establishing the newly repotted tree in its container.  (Fast growing roots normally means a fast growing tree)

Over a period of time, generally around a 5 year period, the akadama breaks down and become more solid, reducing the free drainage of the growing medium and reducing the available oxygen in the growing medium.  This slows down root development and also reduce the growing rate of the tree, reducing leaf size, shortens internodal lengths, help with development of ramification and slow down the growth of the tree.  Overall helping with the refinement of the bonsai.  But keep in mind this is only one element in the development of the tree.  Many other factors also influence the growth of a bonsai.

Aquaculture and aquariums

Akadama 1-3 mm (fine) and 3-6mm (small) is a natural product suitable for aquaculture and aquariums, helping to balance the Ph in the water.  Since its a natural product it will not leach anything into the water.

Succulents and Cacti

Akadama can be used to successfully propagate and growing succulents and cacti.  It help with strong root development and gives excellent results where succulents are kept indoors.   Both fine (1-3mm) and Small (3-6mm) can be used.  For the best combination mix with equal parts pumice.  Do not add any organic material to the soil mixture when using an akadama/pumice mix.

The akadama/pumice mix provide excellent ventilation and drainage, while retain enough moisture to keep your succulents happy and healthy.

Remember to regularly feed succulents planted in akadama and pumice.  It does not contain much nutrients so regular feeding is necessary.  The lack of nutrients in the akadama/pumice mix has the benefit of giving you full control over the feeding and growth and development of your succulent.  Make use of liquid fertilizer when feeding.