Frequently Asked Questions

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FAQ Sheet

What is Hydro Sand?

Hydro Sand is a sustainable, naturally derived, biopolymer used for soil moisture retention.
Hydro Sand can also be used on its own as a substrate used in plant tissue culture, hydroponics, or for sprouting seeds.

What does Hydro Sand do?

Hydro Sand expands when it absorbs water or water-based solutions and contracts when the water is released. As Hydro Sand expands and contracts it can help aerate and unpack soils.
When used on its own, Hydro Sand may be sterilized with a UV light, at standard intervals, allowing for a sterilization method other than heat/steam sterilization.

Can you use Hydro Sand to sprout / start seeds?

Yes! Simply add water, place in your preferred container, add your seeds, and continue with your usual routine.

How much water can Hydro Sand hold?

Lab studies have shown Hydro Sand can hold between 7 - 14 mL per gram ( 7X - 14X ) of Hydro Sand depending on the temperature!

Is Hydro Sand compatible with all plants?

Yes! The main thing you want to pay attention to is how much water your plant likes. The less water needed for your plant, the less Hydro Sand you need to add.

How much Hydro Sand should I add?

This depends on your soil / substrate, though normally a 1:10 ratio with the soil around your plants. The dryer your substrate, the more you should add.
On average you should add 1 tablespoon (14g) of Hydro Sand to ̴ 5oz (140g).

Does Hydro Sand support soil health?

Yes! Hydro Sand provides ideal conditions for your soil microorganisms and helps the soil itself. As Hydro Sand breaks down (biodegradable) it adds to your soils cohesion that brings it together!
Hydro Sand can absorb your excess plant food and store it for later use, preventing it from being washed away into streams, rivers, and water sheds.
Hydro Sand expands and contracts providing vital aeration and decompression for your soil.

Is Hydro Sand biodegradable?

Yes! 2 - 3 years for full biodegradation. Even after it has fully degraded, there will be no harsh byproducts left behind. Unlike Polyacrylamide (a competitors “Water Crystals”), which degrade into toxic chemical compounds like acrylamide.

How long does it take Hydro Sand to absorb water?

10 - 20 minutes

Is Hydro Sand non-toxic?

Yes, Hydro Sand is non-toxic. Proven to be non-toxic in Laboratory testing!

Is Hydro Sand pet and child friendly?

Yes! Hydro Sand is a naturally derived non-toxic biopolymer. Even if accidentally swallowed, your pets, your children, and wildlife are safe!

How long does Hydro Sand last?

Hydro Sand will last in the soil for 2 - 3 years until it has fully degraded.

How do I store Hydro Sand?

Seal the pouch, and place Hydro Sand in your cabinet.

When should I NOT use Hydro Sand?

Ummm… dunno. Hydro Sand is awesome!
But, you wouldn’t want to use Hydro Sand in any place that is already saturated with large amounts of water for extended periods of time such as: swamps, pools, oceans, in the middle of rivers, or your bath tub.