Resources

Vulkaponic is a horticultural mineral substrate trusted for over 20 years in Europe. It is comprised of a medium-hard pumice and very high-quality zeolite. Together, they provide the optimal balance in root aeration, hydration, and nutrition. 

While Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate (LECA) is commonly used in soilless hydroponic systems, Vulkaponic is specifically designed for semi-hydro methods that preserve the original soil and root structure.

Key differences include:

• Moisture Handling: LECA primarily facilitates the movement of water (translocation), whereas Vulkaponic both stores and translocates moisture.
• Sustainability: LECA is man-made in fuel-fired kilns, resulting in a higher environmental impact. In contrast, Vulkaponic substrate is naturally sourced, making it a more sustainable choice.

Vulkaponic USA provides Vulkaponic mineral substrate in 3-8 mm granules. This coarse size allows for excellent root aeration.

Vulkaponic bulk density is approximately 46 lbs./cu. ft. Due to its high moisture retention, the bulk density at maximum water holding capacity is approximately 59 lbs./cu. ft.

With root ball displacement, a 10” plant in a 12” decorative container requires about 15 Liters. A 14” plant in a 16” decorative container requires about 30 Liters. A complete usage calculator is available on our Resources page.

Vulkaponic is available in 25-Liter bags (50 per pallet) and palleted 1500-Liter Super-Sacks. Pricing is approximately $1.00/Liter which includes freight. Volume discounts apply for shipments of 4 or more pallets. 

We remove the grow pot and direct plant. Any loose soil may be removed, but generally keep all the soil and root system in place.

Depending on the plant and container, at least 2” to 3” for small plants and about 4” to 8” for larger plants. Vulkaponic can draw water upwards over 10”-12”. The amount of substrate under the root ball depends on the height of the bottom of the container or liner relative to the base of the root ball.

With capillary action, water is drawn upwards 10”-12” through Vulkaponic. If the layer of Vulkaponic under the root ball is deeper than 12”, a false bottom and flexible liner will be necessary. Be sure to place additional weight at the bottom of a tall container to prevent it from being top-heavy. A planting guide may be found on our Resources page.

The decorative container is the water reservoir for Vulkaponic and must be waterproof. If not inherently waterproof, a flexible liner may be used. Alternatively, lining the container with 6-8 mil plastic works well. Large ceramics with drain holes may be plugged with Quickrete water-stop, then sealed with Redgard. Both are available from Lowe’s and Home Depot.

Larger trees or specimens can be planted in Vulkaponic with underplanting of lower plants. Since water will be drawn upwards over 10”-12” through Vulkaponic, you need to accommodate a water reservoir under any plants outside this reach. This is commonly done with water catch trays placed below the root system of the underplanting. Alternately, occasional spot watering of the underplanting separate from the large specimens will supply moisture to the underplanting. 

Yes, if the trays or other media support system will support the bulk density of the substrate. All the benefits of Vulkaponic would be apparent in a living wall just as they would be in free-standing planters.

Yes, although we recommend an alternative semi-hydro planting method for extended service cycles. Exposed Vulkaponic exposed to sun, heat, and wind may dry down quickly. The exterior method keeps Vulkaponic at the bottom of the container with soil and mulch above it. The recommended exterior planting method may be found on our Resources page.

No, Vulkaponic is designed as a standalone semi-hydro subirrigation method. Its unique substrate retains a significant amount of moisture, eliminating the need for additional subirrigation components. This moisture is stored within the substrate itself and provides efficient irrigation directly to the plant roots.