Tropicals & Tender Perennials: Diatomite, 0 by Keyring

Keyring wrote:
Tami,

Diatomite alone would give the roots a lot of air because it is jagged. But, if you fill in those gaps with a peat mix, you lose all the air.

How is you hydroton set up? Is it semi hydro or are you using it like a regulay potting mix? The stuff doesn't hold water and doesn't wick up very well, so even with semihydro, you have to water from above until the roots are at least half way down the pot.

Also, don't forget to adjust fertilizer when you move to these types of media.

I have a tub of large grade diatomite looking like this: