Intensive soilless cultivation in horticulture and floriculture

Soilless vegetable and flower growing under cover (in greenhouses and polytunnels) is becoming very widespread because it

• optimises the quality and quantity of the harvest
• standardises and rationalises the work in greenhouses
• reduces water consumption and improves the phytosanitary conditions for crops
• optimises the fertilisers (the nutrient solutions) and increases their efficiency
• can be undertaken anywhere, independently of local soil characteristics

Laterlite Agri Expanded Clay (in the form of IdroLaterlite, specifically formulated for hydroponics) is the ideal inert substrate for hydroponic cultivation under cover because

• its chemical and physical characteristics are standardised and consistent
• it has neutral pH
• it has very good insulating properties that limit sudden temperature changes
• it does not contain phytotoxic substances
• it has excellent resistance to crushing.

The use of IdroLaterlite in hydroponics gives:

• optimised management of the nutrients without increasing salinity and electrical conductivity, since the granulate does not interfere with delivery of the nutrient solution to the plant,
• optimal anchorage for the root system,
• high porosity (> 80%) and good water retention (up to 30%),
• standardised growing conditions that remain constant over time,
• reuse, recycling and ease of sterilisation as required.

The best vegetables for hydroponic cultivation in expanded clay are tomatoes, eggplants, zucchini, chillies, etc..

IdroLaterlite is available:

• loose for use in various types of containers, pots, and special hydroponic trays
• in special 33.3 litre grow bags for direct planting. These are lightweight, quick to place in position, easy to use, and are ideal for intensive cultivation.

IdroLaterlite technical specifications:

• Approximate density 400 kg/m3
• pH 6.0-6.5
• Approximate water retention capacity 25% V/V
• Approximate total porosity 80% V/V
• Bag volume: approx. 30 litres.