Moisture retaining crystals.. good or bad?

[KANDI]

Well found some cheap moisture retaining crystals from 'woolies' 97p a pack..

Do you think i can use these on my seedlings when i transplant?

Or do you/ have you ever used moisture retaining crystals????

 

[DocFL]

I mixed some in with my soil mix and they were there holding moisture a month later when I did a re-pot. It certainly didn't seem to harm the plant at all and maybe it did help retain some moisture because I never encountered wilted leaves and whatnot.

Anyone have some negative aspects of using the crystals?

 

[jimmyspaz]

I've never used them but have a mate who swears by them, says it cuts down on watering frequency so he can leave for a few days. I am home every day to check mine so don't need them.

 

[Picasso345]

Lots of people use them whether they know it or not. Isn't that what Miracle Grow puts in the soil to make its "Moisture Control" soil?

 

[DocFL]

Lots of people use them whether they know it or not. Isn't that what Miracle Grow puts in the soil to make its "Moisture Control" soil?

I think it's more coconut husks and such, but Ihave not used the moisture retention stuff since I grabbed thes crystals

 

[KANDI]

I've never used them but have a mate who swears by them, says it cuts down on watering frequency so he can leave for a few days. I am home every day to check mine so don't need them.

My light is only 250w but I have found my soil dries out even whilst i sleep.

Thanks all for quick replies ...

I might experiment, i have four seedlings all under a week old, I might try giving two some crystals and see what happens.

I noticed nappies have moisture retaining crystals inside ( i don't wear them , my daughter does ..hehe), so i suppose if it's good for a babies bum ... it shouldnt be that harmful to plants .. (female logic..)