When growing vegetables in greenhouses in the Soviet years, mineral wool for plants was very popular. This material has been used in construction since the beginning of the 20th century, but in the early 70s it was introduced into the agro-industrial sector.
This article provides information about what mineral wool is and what its advantages and disadvantages are.
What is mineral wool
These are soil mixtures with high porosity and density. It contains some metals, but is generally pH neutral. Mineral wool for plants was created from three minerals. When heated to 1600 degrees, fibers are pulled out of it, from which cubes and slabs of various volumes are further formed.
Since the 80s, it has been used in growing flowers and fresh vegetables in greenhouses. From a financial point of view, it is very profitable in operation, as it can be used in subsequent years. But this is not the best way to grow vegetables andcolors. What are the advantages and disadvantages of mineral wool for plants?
Advantages and disadvantages
Among the shortcomings, one can note the fact that during irrigation, the liquid is unevenly distributed over the substrate. And, as a result, there is an excess of water in the lower part, and the upper part is overdried. Because of this, a certain amount of s alt accumulates on the surface, which must be regularly removed with fresh water. The reason for this lies in the high moisture capacity and low water retention of cotton wool.
Another disadvantage that follows from the first is the need for regular watering of the top layer of the substrate. And this means that the root system is doomed to be in constant dampness, from which the plant may die. Therefore, a compromise must be found. For example, irrigation with low s alt solutions and in closed systems rather than open systems.
Among the benefits are the following: the ability to use for a subsequent crop (cost-effective purchase), the water-holding capacity of the substrate and mineral top dressing.
Hydroponics at home
Hydroponics allows you to grow plants without soil in greenhouse conditions. Its advantage is that it can be used both on a huge industrial scale and at home. In its usual sense, hydroponics consists of a structure (which is easy to build with your own hands) in several rows. Its main componentsparts:
- Cylinder or tank. It will contain the fluid medium of the nutrient solution that the specific vegetable or plant needs.
- Pots for each plant. They must have holes in them to feed young crops.
- The pump supplies and regulates the necessary nutrient medium for each plant.
- The substrate (mineral wool or expanded clay filler) not only retains moisture, but also serves as a reliable fixation for each plant.
Hydroponics at home or in agriculture is best used in closed systems - gardeners use it in basements or more often in greenhouses.
Growing on mineral substrate
Mineral wool is sold sterile and in various volumes in the form of briquettes, cubes and slabs. Corks and cubes are optimal for growing tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers. Greens can be grown in smaller mats. A pot or seedling box can be selected in any size, depending on the required volume.
Preparation for growing plants on mineral wool is as follows: the substrate is placed in boxes with seedlings and filled with water. The mineral wool must be evenly and sufficiently saturated with water before planting the seeds.
