Our product researchers recently conducted some side-by-side trials testing Sunleaves Silica Stone against traditional hydroponic media including expanded clay pellets as well as a silica mixture from an alternate source. Plants growing in Sunleaves Silica Stone benefited in several ways including increased overall yields and more compact growth.

Over a three-month period, sweet basil plants were grown in continuous aeration hydroponics systems. In each system, a submersible pump suctioned to the bottom of the nutrient reservoir continually splashed one-part, Ionic nutrient solution onto plant roots. In lieu of plastic net cups, plants were contained in fibrous root pots made of shredded, compressed coconut shell fiber. As for garden lighting, one 1000-watt metal halide lamp was positioned 18 inches above each basil plant, and plants received 18 hours of blue-spectrum light daily.

In the following photos, growing media represented clockwise from lower left are Sunleaves Silica Stone, expanded clay pellets, Sunleaves Silica Stone, and the alternate silica mixture.

In the first quarter of the experiment, basil plants appear to be growing at a similar rate.

During the second quarter, the basil plants growing in Sunleaves silica stone have begun to outperform the others with larger leaves, thicker stems, and more compact growth.