How to Use Polymer Crystals in Landscaping
Polymer crystals, technically known as polyacrylamide hydrogels, are a common soil additive used to retain moisture at the roots of plants, shrubs and small trees. These crystals are able to absorb approximately 50 gallons of water per lb. of dry crystals. When polymer crystals are incorporated into soil of plantings, roots will have constant access to moisture and be better able to survive dry conditions without stunting of growth. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Shrubs or Trees
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Dig a hole large enough to plant the tree or shrub. The hole should be two or three times the size of the root ball.
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Mix 1/2 cup of crystals into the fill to be placed around the root ball. Concentrate the crystals into the bottom half of the hole, otherwise the hydrated gel may pop through the surface. In dry areas, the amount may be doubled to 1 cup.
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3
Mix an additional 1 oz. of polymer to 1/2 cubic foot of soil, and include this directly under the root ball. Skip this step for smaller shrubs and trees.
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4
Fill the hole with dirt/polymer mixture, and pack down well. Leave a slight indentation in the surface to hold water.
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Water thoroughly for the first several days. It will take 1 gallon of water to hydrate every oz. of polymer, and you do not want the polymer to absorb all the water from the surrounding roots and soil.
Flower Beds
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Spread polymer over the surface at the rate of 1 lb. per 100 square feet.
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Till the soil and polymer mixture to a depth of 10 to 12 inches.
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Plant the beds as desired. Water thoroughly to fully hydrate the polymers.
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Tips & Warnings
Polymers have not be shown to be effective in reducing irrigation requirements for lawns
While generally considered safe, there is some concern that polyacrylamide will break down into acrylamide in the presence of certain minerals. Acrylamides are known toxins.
Polymers will break down with exposure to sunlight. Always cover polymers with soil.
