Natural zeolite as a growing medium in hydroponics

Natural zeolite – clinoptilolite – has a unique, honeycomb-shaped molecular structure and is negatively charged. This means that it can attract and retain significant amounts of nutrient molecules, such as nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, calcium and magnesium. These unique properties make it the ideal hydroponic growing medium.

It is a 100% natural product, balances the pH and is able to bind nutrients and water within its structure whilst remaining anhydrous.

Natural zeolite requires up to 50 per cent less watering, as it traps and retains water within its structure until the roots require and absorb it, thereby also allowing for proper drainage and aeration of the roots. It has been used for many years by NASA for hydroponic cultivation and experimentation in space.

Natural zeolite has been scientifically proven to reduce the leaching of nutrients during drainage, keeping these nutrients close to the roots until they are required by the plant.

Scientific findings

• Up to 90% reduction in total coliforms
• Up to 85% reduction in staphylococcus bacteria
• Up to 62% reduction in fungi and fungal infections
• Up to 48% reduction in lactose in yeast cultures

Key features

• It is highly porous, resulting in excellent aeration of the root system
• It is a 100% natural product that promotes sustainable agriculture
• Provides increased retention of nitrogen and potassium
• It enhances water and oxygen retention
• It is the same grade of zeolite used by NASA
• It is non-toxic and chemical-free
• Provides a high degree of hydration
• Provides high cation exchange capacity
• It releases nutrients at a controlled rate
• It has superior water and nutrient absorption
• It dissolves nitrogen instantly in water
• It is non-degradable
• It is non-compressed
• Acts as a pH stabiliser
• It is reusable

References to research studies

Gul: Comparison of the use of zeolite and perlite as a substrate for crisp-head lettuce

Rehakova: Agricultural and agrochemical uses of natural zeolite

Polat: Use of natural clinoptilolite zeolite in agriculture

Fukuyama: Improvement of hydroponic culture medium by adding zeolite

Malekian: Effects of clinoptilolite on nitrate leaching

Products from this article

Everything for farming in the shop →

Perlite for aerationPerlite for agricultural use – aeration and moisture retention – 100 litres★★★★★ (3)18,90 €View →For potsGreek zeolite, up to 1 millimetre – powder, ideal for use in very small-scale cultivation and light soil – 500 grams3,40 €View →Foliar and root sprayEcoPlant® – Soil and Foliar Improver – 60 ml★★★★ (2)5,90 € 3,50 €View →

How much zeolite do your pots need?Calculate the dose →