{"product_id":"rootlabs-mineral-grow-mix-8l-3-8mm","title":"ROOTLABS Mineral Grow Mix 5L (3–8mm)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eROOTLABS Mineral Grow Mix (Semi-Hydro Substrate)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"882\" data-start=\"845\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"882\" data-start=\"845\"\u003eROOTLABS Mineral Grow Mix (3 – 8mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1039\" data-start=\"884\"\u003eROOTLABS Mineral Grow Mix is a precision-blended inorganic substrate designed for growers who want maximum control over moisture, airflow, and root health.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1275\" data-start=\"1041\"\u003eBuilt using a carefully balanced combination of LECA, zeolite, and perlite, this mix delivers a highly aerated root environment while maintaining stable moisture availability, ideal for semi-hydroponic and controlled growing systems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1299\" data-start=\"1282\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1299\" data-start=\"1282\"\u003eSpecification\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Particle Size: 3–8mm blended\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Clean, dust-minimised components\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1397\" data-start=\"1369\"\u003e- Inorganic and slow-degradin\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1397\" data-start=\"1369\"\u003e- Excellent capillary and drainage balance\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1476\" data-start=\"1447\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1476\" data-start=\"1447\"\u003eWhy Use Mineral Grow Mix?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1686\" data-start=\"1478\"\u003e✔ Exceptional root oxygenation\u003cbr data-end=\"1511\" data-start=\"1508\"\u003e✔ Prevents compaction and root suffocation\u003cbr data-end=\"1556\" data-start=\"1553\"\u003e✔ Stable moisture retention without overwatering\u003cbr data-end=\"1607\" data-start=\"1604\"\u003e✔ Ideal for semi-hydro and self-watering setups\u003cbr data-end=\"1657\" data-start=\"1654\"\u003e✔ Long-lasting and reusable\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1706\" data-start=\"1693\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1706\" data-start=\"1693\"\u003eIdeal For\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1743\" data-start=\"1710\"\u003e- Semi-hydroponic growing systems\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1743\" data-start=\"1710\"\u003e- Aroids transitioning from soil\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1743\" data-start=\"1710\"\u003e- Alocasia and Anthurium\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1743\" data-start=\"1710\"\u003e- Orchids (select applications)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1743\" data-start=\"1710\"\u003e- Root rehabilitation and propagation\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1913\" data-start=\"1886\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1913\" data-start=\"1886\"\u003eWhat Makes It Different\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2128\" data-start=\"1915\"\u003eUnlike traditional potting mixes, ROOTLABS Mineral Grow Mix does not break down over time. This allows for predictable watering cycles, reduced risk of root rot, and a cleaner, more controlled growing environment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-end=\"301\" data-start=\"295\" data-section-id=\"1hryhf7\"\u003eFAQ\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"330\" data-start=\"303\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"330\" data-start=\"303\"\u003eIs this similar to PON?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"519\" data-start=\"332\"\u003eROOTLABS Mineral Grow Mix is comparable in function to mineral substrates like PON, as both are designed to create a highly aerated, controlled root environment using inorganic materials.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"735\" data-start=\"521\"\u003eHowever, ROOTLABS Mineral Grow Mix is locally developed and specifically balanced for South African growing conditions, using a blend of LECA, zeolite, and perlite to achieve optimal moisture retention and airflow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"790\" data-start=\"742\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"790\" data-start=\"742\"\u003eWhat is the difference between this and PON?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"854\" data-start=\"792\"\u003eWhile both serve a similar purpose, there are key differences:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"964\" data-start=\"858\"\u003eROOTLABS Mineral Grow Mix uses a \u003cstrong data-end=\"919\" data-start=\"891\"\u003echunkier 3–8mm structure\u003c\/strong\u003e, improving airflow and reducing compaction\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1042\" data-start=\"967\"\u003eDesigned for \u003cstrong data-end=\"1009\" data-start=\"980\"\u003estronger drainage control\u003c\/strong\u003e, especially in warmer climates\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1134\" data-start=\"1045\"\u003eBuilt using \u003cstrong data-end=\"1086\" data-start=\"1057\"\u003elocally sourced materials\u003c\/strong\u003e, making it more accessible and cost-effective\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1198\" data-start=\"1137\"\u003eSlightly more forgiving for growers transitioning from soil\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1292\" data-start=\"1200\"\u003eIn practical terms: PON is more uniform and fine, ROOTLABS is more breathable and robust.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1335\" data-start=\"1299\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1335\" data-start=\"1299\"\u003eCan I use this exactly like PON?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1374\" data-start=\"1337\"\u003eYes, it can be used in the same way:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1398\" data-start=\"1378\"\u003e- Semi-hydro systems\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1421\" data-start=\"1401\"\u003e- Self-watering pots\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1446\" data-start=\"1424\"\u003e- Passive hydro setups\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1547\" data-start=\"1448\"\u003eYou may need to slightly adjust your watering frequency depending on your environment and pot type.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1583\" data-start=\"1554\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1583\" data-start=\"1554\"\u003eIs this better than soil?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1609\" data-start=\"1585\"\u003eIt depends on your goal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1635\" data-start=\"1611\"\u003eMineral Grow Mix offers:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1667\" data-start=\"1639\"\u003e- More control over watering\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1696\" data-start=\"1670\"\u003e- Reduced risk of root rot\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1724\" data-start=\"1699\"\u003e- Better airflow to roots\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1816\" data-start=\"1726\"\u003eSoil, on the other hand, holds more nutrients naturally but is less predictable over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1876\" data-start=\"1818\"\u003eThis mix is ideal if you want \u003cstrong data-end=\"1875\" data-start=\"1848\"\u003econsistency and control\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1876\" data-start=\"1818\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1915\" data-start=\"1883\"\u003eDo I need to add fertiliser?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1921\" data-start=\"1917\"\u003eYes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2068\" data-start=\"1923\"\u003eBecause this is an inorganic substrate, it does not contain nutrients. You will need to use a liquid fertiliser as part of your watering routine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2068\" data-start=\"1923\"\u003eWe reccommend EHG\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2094\" data-start=\"2075\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2094\" data-start=\"2075\"\u003eCan I reuse it?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2100\" data-start=\"2096\"\u003eYes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2244\" data-start=\"2102\"\u003eOne of the biggest advantages is that Mineral Grow Mix does not break down. With proper rinsing and cleaning, it can be reused multiple times.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ROOTLABS","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47481619906818,"sku":null,"price":229.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0803\/2400\/2050\/files\/18.rootlabsmineralgrowmixsku.png?v=1776328631","url":"https:\/\/shop.rootlabs.co.za\/products\/rootlabs-mineral-grow-mix-8l-3-8mm","provider":"ROOTLABS","version":"1.0","type":"link"}