Pumice Stone - Gardening Series (Setogahara-JAPAN)

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Pumice is fascinating stuff, borne out of the superheated earth.
• It is basically whipped volcanic glass that is made up of tiny air bubbles.
• This means that pumice is a lightweight volcanic rock that makes it perfect for use as a soil amendment.
• The airy rock is ideal for use with cacti and succulents as well as other plants that require excellent drainage and air circulation.
• Plus, the porosity of pumice allows microbial life to thrive while maintaining soil structure better than perlite.
• Planting with pumice also has the advantage of a neutral pH along with a variety of trace materials.

BENEFITS

• It reduces water runoff and fertilization by increasing soil absorption in sandy soils.
• It absorbs excess moisture so roots don’t rot.
• It improves aeration and stimulates the growth of mycorrhizae.
• It doesn’t decompose or compact over time like other soil amendments, which means it helps to maintain soil structure.
• It keeps clay soils loose over time for continued soil health.
• It is a natural, unprocessed organic product that doesn’t decompose or blow away.

APPLICATION

• To improve drainage for plants such as succulents, mix 25% pumice with 25% garden soil, 25% compost, and 25% large grain sand.
• For plants that are prone to rotting, like some euphorbias, amend the soil with 50% pumice or in lieu of amending the soil.
• Fill the planting hole with pumice so the roots are surrounded by it.
• Pumice can be used as a topdressing to absorb rainwater that puddles around plants.
• For potted succulents, combine equal portions of pumice to potting soil.
• For cacti and euphorbia, combine 60% pumice with 40% potting soil.
• A layer of pumice will absorb spilled oil, grease, and other toxic liquids.
• Once the fluid has been absorbed, sweep it up and dispose of it in an eco-friendly manner.