just wondering if there is anyone out there that doesnt use rockwool. im pretty sure you dont need rockwool for cuttings, once its sprouted roots, or do you?

has anyone ever try sprouting seeds carefully placing them in hydroton? what are some successful alternatives?

also, how do you clean hydroton, do you have to clean it even for the first time you use it?

50% cutting compost, 50% perlite/vermiculite.

__________________
"5TON3D AGA1N"
peace

Yes, you have to wash the hydroton before you use it. If you do not want to use Rockwool starter plugs, then use Rapid Rooter plugs, Oh as a last resort use the Peat Pucks you can buy at Home Depoe, or Lowes.. (YUCK)!!!!!!! I hate Peat Pucks though.

Clean all the dust off of the hydroton when you get it its good to go after that! If you want to re-use the hydroton after a grow, you need to soak them in a bleach-water solution, then just water and they are good to go after that!

There are also gro-cubes made of coconut fibers, its called coco- something... theres always soil.. lol...

use rapid rooters they work the best no fuss no mess no ph'ing just stick and go

thanks for the advice guys, just ordered some rapid rooter. it completely slipped my mind because i remember looking up rapid rooter a long time ago.

another question, if you use rapid rooter with aeroponics, will it break apart and clog the nozzles/pump like peat pellets?

what's your beef with rockwool?

__________________
"Every generation needs a new revolution." - Thomas Jefferson
Check out my new grow! http://www.rollitup.org/grow-journal...ing-again.html

Rockwool can be hard to find unless you have a local specialty garden store or hydro store. But...rockwool is the best if you ask me.

That Oasis stuff sucks....I tried that a long time ago and had several problems. Rockwool ever since, no problems.

Those coco-coir things, I have heard good stuff about those as well...might buy some next time.

why are people suggesting, that you wash hydroton prior to first use? when it's new, it's sterile. it's ready to use. the dust is just clay dust. it's ph neutrual and will neither help or harm your plants. in fact it accumulates any time you let the hydroton dry out. You only wash hydroton to prevent diseases, fungi and decaying particulates from spreading to future crops.

__________________
come join us on our island.

thanks for the information. when i first used it i just threw it in the net pots and saw my water turn murky brown. i then took them out and just ran plain tap water through them to get off all the dust, i wasnt sure if i had to sterilize it first. i had some problems with my plants and wanted to back track my steps and correct my mistakes. i just wanted to double check with you guys, you never can be too cautious.