Can "Zeobrite" be used in a soil mix?

[mfres6]

Hi all,

I recently put up a post asking where to purchase Zeolite in Brisbane. I have been doing some further research on the web and have found this product called Zeobrite made from Zeolite.

http://www.zeobrite.com/

It says on the website that "Best of all, Zeobrite® lasts just as long as sand. And when it's finally time for replacement, all natural Zeobrite® can be mixed into your garden soil, planter boxes or spread over your lawn as a natural soil enhancer."

I guess that the partical size would be a consideration? Has anyone heard of, or used this product before? And does anyone know if it would be suitable to mix with diatomite?

I thought that if the local pool shop stocks it, that it should be easy to obtain.

Regards, Matt

[Bougy Fan]

Hi Matt I would imagine the size would be way too small. Part of the function of diatomite/ zeolite/ perlit is to open the mix up and encourage free draining. I would think using this product would just be like using sand and would give you drainage issues. Have you tried a hydroponic shop ? I would be interested if you locate some in Brissy.


Tony

[AndrewM]

I had a quick search of the web and found this
http://www.zeolitemineral.com/aahome.php
Zeolite Mineral Corp are located in Brisbane. I think if you got in contact with them they could let you know how to get it . http://www.zeolitemineral.com/mainhorticulture.php

[mfres6]

Thanks Andrew. I have emailed them and will wait for their reply. Your time and effort is appreciated! I will let everybody know how I get on.

Regards, Matt

[gordonb]

If you have a garden seive, just get rid of the finer stuff (<2mm) before adding to your potting substrate. I use zeolite here in NZ, and that is what I do. In fact, I seive almost all components.
Cheers

[AndrewM]

No problem Matt
No time spent just a google search.

[mfres6]

Thanks GordonB. Upon further research it appears that zeobrite has a partical size of .4 -1.4mm!!! This would have to be way too small even at it's largest.

[Bretts]

Yep the pool stuff is about the 1mm size. I grabbed a few extra bags when we replaced our filter. It can be handy stuff and have since bought more to use in small pots or seedlings and such. If you sieved potting mix and did a 50/50 it can work quite well.
Some people do use potting mix and sand with great results, you just need to adjust your care accordingly. They are generally less maintenance than a coarser mix and depending on habits may even give you better results.
If you want to follow the high miantenece advice given on the intenet these days then you would be best going for a coarser free drianing mix.
More work but in general I think they give better results when you get it right