Growing media is an essential part of any hydroponic growing system. Simply put, growing media is a soil substitute. There are many types of grow media available, each offering different advantages. These media are all inert, sterile substrates that have excellent aeration properties. Rockwool 2.5cm (one inch) cubes are ideal for starting seedlings/cuttings, and then can be transferred into 7.5cm (three inch) cubes. Afterwards, the growing cubes are either planted onto rockwool slabs or into your hydroponic system or other substrate like GreenMix which is a mixture of water retentive and water repellant rockwool. This gives better drainage. Clay pebbles are by far the most popular potting on hydroponic medium and are used in flood and drain, drip irrigation, passive systems, even some NFT systems. This medium provides excellent aeration, superb pH stability and can be re-used. It can also be mixed with soil to improve aeration and drainage.

Rockwool Cubes

These are ideal for transferring and growing seedlings, and cuttings grown in SBS cubes. At this point, the growing cubes are planted on into NFT systems or Grodan Rockwool Slabs. The wrapped cubes come in two sizes: small aperture (for small SBS) or larger aperture (for large SBS). Please specify when placing your order.

Rockwool Slabs

The slab method is most commonly used by commercial farmers to grow larger, high productivity plants (tomatoes or cucumbers) and large scale flower production. Drip irrigation is the preferred method to feed plants at regular intervals. Three sizes are available.

Spreader Mats

Replacement spreader mats for NFT systems.

GreenMix

This is also known as GoldenWool. GreenMix is a rockwool granulate made up of water absorbent and water repellent properties with unique pH buffers. This offers very good aeration and drainage qualities and is a favourite of many growers because it's easy to use and has reliable results.

Clay Pebbles

Hydroton clay pebbles from Germany are lightweight, uniform, pH neutral and re-usable. For most applications, 8-16mm is the most popular size.

Perlite

These are made from processed granules of volcanic rock. Perlite has excellent capillary properties and doesn't compact which makes for good aeration. These are sometimes used in pot culture or with drippers.

Vermiculite

Often mixed with perlite for seed and clone raising.

Canna Coco

GroDan Rockwool

Grodan is probably the best brand of rockwool available.

Jiffy Pellets

Start seedlings with Jiffy Pellets. Soak pellets for less than five minutes then squeeze to introduce air and prevent water logging. Using a match, create a hole for one seed. Insert seed and cover. Place in propagator.