The Origin of Higromite
In prehistoric times fresh water lakes were populated by diatoms, tiny single-cell creatures rich in silicon. Over time, their skeletons accumulated at the bottom of the lakes in which they lived. Higromite is extracted from ancient freshwater lake beds where nearby volcanoes erupted and ash was deposited into these same lakes rich in diatoms. The mix of volcanic ash and fossilized earth is classified as a material called pozzolana.
The material is collected from a surface mine and then undergoes a heating process called calcination within twin rotary kilns located at the source. This "calcination" process helps create Higromite's inert properties and porosity. Finally the product is screened and packaged to meet the needs of both hobbiest & commercial applications. The end product is extremely porous and absorbent which allows for the efficient movement of air, water, and nutrients within your growing environment.
High Silicon Content
Higromite is comprised of about 70% silicon (Si). A definitive lack of silicon has been proved to decrease overall yields and vigor of some fruit and flower bearing plants.
Research shows that silicon benefits plants in the following ways: improved resistance to wilt, resistance to water stress (heat and drought), enhanced leaf presentation resulting in improved light interception and enhanced reproductive growth.
Silicon absorbed as silica by the plants is found in the epidermal cell walls. Silica deposited in epidermal cell walls makes plants resistant to small sucking insects. The resulting increased mechanical strength in epidermal cell walls enhances leaf presentation and stem strength.
