Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Has any one heard of this product? Here is a clip from their website. the grow bed media come in differant sizes and is used as a growbed media in hydroponics.

“Maidenwell Diatomite” is a rich source of plant available silica which is widely documented to stimulate Self Acquired Resistance (SAR) in plants thereby increasing their resistance to disease.

Hi-Silica, premium, “Maidenwell” is derived from a fresh (clear water) diatomite deposit found in Queensland, Australia. It provides: “Increased water absorption, maximises moisture retention and reduces watering.” It’s beneficial in areas with water restrictions or where water is in short supply.

Application rates:
Lawns: Spread evenly on lawn at a rate of two litres per square metre keep watered till grass grows through.
Turf Laying: Apply at a rate of five litres per square metre evenly beneath the surface, before laying turf.
Seed raising & propagation: Blend at a rate of between 25% to 50% with peat or similar medium.
Potting Mix: Ideally use between 15% to 50% with peat or similar medium, depending on required results.
(“Maidenwell” can be successfully used 100% as potting media if so desired)

ABSORBS & SLOW RELEASES WATER: “Maidenwell” is a very lightweight, highly absorbent granule, capable of absorbing up to 150% its own weight in water. The internal porosity of “Maidenwell” allows the granules to re-absorb moisture (water or liquid nutrient) and slow release it back to the plant as required. Each time it’s watered, it re-absorbs and stores moisture ready to restart the ‘slow release’ cycle. “Maidenwell” waters when you can’t, it reduces the frequency and amount of watering, owing to its absorbency and slow release capability. It also improves soil aeration and can be used confidently with all reputable fertilisers.

FOSSILISED: “Maidenwell Diatomite” is fossilised, it’s permanent and won’t break down. (unlike many other water storage crystals that are only temporary and usually, unduly expensive)

Helpful Hints

* The pH of “Maidenwell Diatomite” 5.7 makes it suitable for most plants.
* Provides plant available silica, which is one of the nutrients which plants require for optimal growth.
* Sterilised in a rotary kiln to 650oC, it is consistent, does not swell, expand or contract.
* Will significantly increase the amount of water and nutrient stored by the soil or growing media.
* Improves aeration of roots and minimises root decay problems.
* These natural granules, when combined with fertiliser or nutrient are beneficial to all plants and grass.
* Owing to its absorbency, when “Maidenwell” is applied as directed to indoor pots, more water can be
applied which reduces the risk of excess water seeping through to carpet or flooring.

This is the websit check out the differant sizes of the gravel.
http://www.maidenwelldiatomiteaustralia ... efault.htm

My questions are , Will this product require less cycling of the fish water and therefore less filtering of wastes? Is Silica bad for fish? I know it is bad for insects as the silica cuts them. A powderd form is used as a pest control. Have a good look around their website and please tell me what you think.

Thanks

Aussieponic

Aussieponic, The simplicity of gravel grow beds is what makes it so good for aquaponics. There is no need to try and retain water and slowly release it to the plants really. I would be good to try a test bed of the stuff alongside my test of coco peat.
But if it is to be a replacement for gravel I really do not see to many advantages.
It would be great in a conventional garden.

Muzza

and the ph of 5.7 is a bit too low for the fish and the bacteria.

I used something similar in my dirt garden years ago. The granules swell up in water and look like little balls of mucous. As they dry, they shrink again. It was fine in a dirt garden, but I think it would make a mess in an AP system.

I think my youngest had some of that media coming out his nose this morning

Don't water him for a few days VB

But then the worms might dry up :-).