Articles

Care for Potted Plants and Ornamental Shrubs

California Crystals are great for your plant needs.
California Crystals are modified polyacrylamide which absorb up to four hundred times their own weight in deionized water. Supplied in dry crystal form, they absorb water and swell to form a durable crystalline gel which plants can tap as a water source. The rate and extent of absorption may vary depending on the salt content of soil and water (150-300 times in most soil). The swelling and shrinking cycle is repeated indefinitely until consumed by microorganisms. California Crystal's unique properties give you a safe and convenient way to reduce the number of waterings your plants need to stay green and healthy. There is no residue build up in the soil. These Crystals have a durability of 5-10 years.

Potted Plants

California Crystals vastly reduce watering costs. When possible mix Crystals with fresh potting soil and repot plants. This will ensure an even distribution of crystals throughout plant root system. If repotting is not practical, use a pencil to make holes in the potting mix approximately 2/3 the depth of the pot. Distribute crystals equally in each hole.

Pot size/ Total amount of Crystals/ # Holes

6”/ ½ tsp. / 6-8

8”/ 1 tsp. / 8-10

10”/ 2 tsp. / 10-12

12” / 1 tbsp. / 12-14

Ornamental Trees/Shrubs

New Trees/Shrubs:

Mix hydrated crystals into back fill. Soil must be loosened to accommodate root system of plant when mature. Work hydrated crystals into this area to insure healthy root development.

To hydrate crystals soak in water for at least 30 minutes. Sixty to ninety minutes will fully hydrate crystals. Mix into backfill at a ration of one part hydrated crystals to five parts soil

Existing Trees/Shrubs:

With a broom sized pipe or dowel make several holes just inside canopy radius. Holes should be no more than 8 inches apart. Drive dowel 2 to 3 feet deep to allow crystals to expand. Dowel should be driven at an angle that passes through lower 1/3 of root zone. Place ½ teaspoon of California Crystals in the hole.

To increase water holding capability simply increase the number of holes around plant.

Notice:The information contained on this site is believed to be accurate and is intended for general guidance in the use of our products. It should not be construed as a guarantee of their suitability for a particular application. Natural Farmers offers no warranties either expressed or implied, nor is freedom from any patent, or others implied, neither is liability accepted for errors or omissions in this information. In order to facilitate product improvement, Natural Farmers reserves the right to change product specifications without notice.

Return to Lawn and Garden Use