2024 Author: Gavin MacAdam | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 13:38
The versatility and low cost of expanded clay makes it the most popular material for summer residents. We offer information on the possibilities of using crushed clay, sand and gravel in gardening, floriculture, design. All types are used in different ways, as they have a different structure, color, size and purpose
What is expanded clay?
It is a lightweight porous material made from shale. All "stones" are homogeneous and have a melted surface. Several types of expanded clay are produced:
• Sand is the most free-flowing expanded clay material. Consists of small granules not exceeding 5 mm.
• Gravel is the most demanded in various fields. By the size of the granules, it is divided into several categories, the largest is 2-4 cm.
• Expanded clay crushed stone has a striking difference in appearance. These are not round "stones", but granules with pronounced edges, close to a cubic shape.
All types are durable in operation, have high strength, presentable appearance, do not react to an acidic environment, and are chemically inert. Expanded clay does not burn and is frost resistant, an excellent heat insulator, and a water balance controller. Water absorption does not exceed 20%, that is, it blocks evaporation and maintains an optimal soil microclimate.
Expanded clay properties are used not only in construction. This environmentally friendly material is in demand among farmers and designers. Small, even stones are in harmony with plants and do not create dissonance in the nature of the landscape.
How to use expanded clay in the country
For many, expanded clay is primarily a building material for insulating roofs, foundations, walls and floors. And also a component of drainage systems, an element of garden paths, an excellent filler for screed and lightening the foundation.
Many gardeners are unaware of the potential of these smooth stones. Expanded clay provides comfortable conditions for plant development, performs the function of root drainage, and is used in hydroponics. Its air and water permeability is a reliable protection against drought in the heat and reduces the possibility of rotting during the rainy season. Low thermal conductivity is used to protect against freezing. Expanded clay prevents the appearance of pests and reduces the risk of diseases.
Soil fertility and expanded clay
There are three use cases.
1. To improve the structure of the soil, expanded clay sand is used, the granules of which are no more than 5 mm. This is true on heavy clay soils, where water stagnates. The earth is mixed with granules and plants are planted in this mixture.
2. The second method is called layered. It is used for planting shrubs, fruit or ornamental trees in places with close water and in lowlands. At the bottom of the planting pit, expanded clay gravel is poured, then soil. A seedling is placed, the root system is covered with earth, and the top layer is a mixture of expanded clay with soil.
3. Mulching from a fine fraction will preserve the moisture reserve, protect against mold and mildew, and reduce the amount of watering. Due to its properties, it creates abundant dew at night / morning hours, providing the effect of dry irrigation.
Landscaping and expanded clay
Free space in a rock garden, mini-garden, rockeries are perfectly covered with expanded clay gravel or crushed stone. It is often used to level surfaces in flower beds, used for bedding under rocky paths, as a drainage under paving stones.
Multicolored granules make it possible to decorate shrubs, flower beds and borders of resting places. Pebbles are used to fill decorative reservoirs, they are laid to create a presentable look and prevent the growth of weeds.
Potted plants, garden flowers and expanded clay
In floriculture, expanded clay is popular as drainage. They fill the bottom of the container, which contributes to good plant growth. Absorbent properties, create a comfortable microclimate, protect from drying out, since the granules after irrigation absorb excess water, and then gradually give to the soil.
Many people use decorative expanded clay on flower beds in the form of an upper layer, covering the surface of the earth with it. This makes each plant stand out favorably and promotes better growth. With his participation, they create various compositions that harmoniously fit into the natural landscape.
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