Mother Earth Hydroton Original 50 Liter | Expanded Clay Pebbles, 8-16 mm

Mother Earth Hydroton Original 50 Liter Bag This bag holds 50 liters of Mother Earth Hydroton Original, a lightweight expanded clay aggregate made in Germany. Natural clay is mined, formed into pellets and kiln fired at high temperature until it expands into tough, round pebbles. The finished pebbles run about 8 to 16 mm across. Each one is semi-porous, with a surface structure that holds a film of moisture while the gaps between pebbles stay open to air. Clay has natural capillary action, so it wicks water up and around roots without staying soggy. Hydroton generally sinks rather than floating, which keeps it in place in flood tables and buckets. The pebbles are inert, so they add nothing to the nutrient solution. They also hold their shape, crop after crop, without breaking down like organic media. A 50 liter bag fills several deep water culture buckets or a full ebb-and-flow tray. An easy-pour spout on the bag helps fill pots without spilling. Cleaned well between crops, the pebbles can be reused again and again. Using Expanded Clay Pebbles in Hydroponics Expanded clay pebbles work in deep water culture, ebb and flow, drip and Dutch bucket systems. Rinse them well before the first use to wash off clay dust that can cloud a reservoir and clog pumps. A short soak before planting lets the pebbles take up water so they don't pull moisture from young roots. In net pots, set the rooted plug in the center and backfill around it to hold it upright. In soil or coco mixes, a layer in the bottom of a container improves drainage. Because the pebbles drain fast, systems built on them usually need frequent irrigation. Check pH and EC in the runoff, since the clay itself has no buffering to fall back on. At the end of a crop, pull out old roots, then soak and scrub the pebbles. A rinse in a mild sanitizer and a full dry let them go straight into the next crop. Store dry pebbles in a closed bag so dust and pests stay out. Key Features 50 Liter Bag: Enough to fill several DWC buckets or a full flood tray. 8 to 16 mm Pebbles: Round, consistent pebbles that leave open air pockets. Semi-Porous: Holds a film of moisture while staying well aerated. Generally Sinks: Stays in place in flood tables and buckets. Inert and Reusable: Adds nothing to the solution and lasts many crops when cleaned. Made in Germany: Kiln-fired natural clay from Mother Earth. Technical Specifications Specification Value Item number 714116 Brand Mother Earth Hydroton Volume 50 L Pebble size 8-16 mm Material Kiln-fired expanded clay Structure Semi-porous Origin Germany Reusable Yes, when cleaned between crops