Stratum Perlite Propagation Blend from The Rare Plantation - 1 Litre
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- $24.00
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- $24.00
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If you already have Rare Plantation's Pup Cup Kit but need more Stratum and Perlite Blend, this is for you. Or use this blend with your own mini pots. Either way, meet your new favourite propagation substrate, especially for Alocasia and other aroids.
A 50/50 pre-mixed blend of perlite and stratum aqua soil, ready to pour out and propagate straight out of the pack, no prep needed. The same blend rare plant grower Yuki from The Rare Plantation uses for her babies.
This is for a 1 litre pack of pre-mixed 50% perlite and 50% stratum aqua soil
Having used pure stratum versus a stratum and perlite blend, the blend has been the winner for me. It creates a lighter mix with better drainage and air pockets thanks to the perlite, reducing the risk of rot. The stratum aqua soil gives the benefits on an organic, nutrient-rich substrate that roots just love. Use together they resist compaction nicely, retaining plenty of oxygen for growing healthy roots.
PRO TIPS
ADD HEAT > To speed up root growth, put your propagations and babies on a heat mat.
PROVIDE AIRFLOW > If using pup cups or mini pots with a humidity dome, either open the vents (if it's the type with a vent), or pop the humidity dome caps off a few times a week (about every second to third day), for a good 10 minutes or more each time. Yes, humidity makes all the difference, but airflow is still important to help avoid rot.
DO FERTILISE > Stratum does have nutrients, but not enough to replace the need for fertiliser. As soon as roots start, I use GT CCS root fertiliser at 5mls per 1 litre water but you can use whatever your usual propagation fertiliser is. I've heard amazing results for Alocasia using Kaylee Ellen's fertiliser PowerGrow also.
What is stratum?
Stratum is also known as aqua soil. It's made from nutrient-rich volcanic soil formed into small, hard balls. It's a natural source of humic and fulvic acids that roots love. It also buffers the pH into the slightly acidic Goldilocks zone that Alocasia and most houseplants prefer, keeping maximum nutrients available to roots. Plus there's no prep or rinsing required.
What is perlite?
Perlite is a naturally occurring volcanic mineral. It's lightweight, sterile, long-lasting and pH neutral. Being super-porous, although perlite does hold some water, it still maintains plenty of air space even when saturated.
Mini pots shown in some photos not included but are available here >