Akadama - What is it

[kcpoole]

Akadama is a type Japanese Volcanic pumice. It is Neutral acidity similar to Kanama and slightly harder.
it is Somwhat harder than Kanuma, and can be crushed between fingers. if treated roughly it will break apart
It is a nice light brown colour and is very light weight so any trees should be Wired into the pot w3hen using it.
It is availabale in Several particle sizes from SuperFine to Large

When loaded into the pot, a course layer goes in first to cover the drain holes. Then another of smaller sized then topped with a fine layer

HARD AKADAMA (neutral pH) Akadama can be made harder if baked in the sun.

Used for Coniferous and deciduous trees other than acid-loving plants.

Black Pine/White
Pine/Shimpaku: Akadama 7 parts, Coarse River Sand (CRS) 3 parts.
Red Pine: (1) Akadama 6 parts, CRS 2 parts, Japanese Black Soil or Coco Peat
2 parts. (Ordinary peat repels water if it dries out in the mix.)
Or: (2) Akadama 8 parts, CRS 2 parts.
Zelkova/Elms: Akadama 8 parts, CRS 2 parts.
Maples: Akadama 8 parts, Sphagnum Moss 1 part, CRS 1 part.
Australian Natives: This is currently an open field but Akadama has been used on
its own, mixed with Kanuma and/or gravel and other media to
remarkably good effect. Very strong healthy growth and good
flower production have been recorded to date.

NOTES: Sphagnum Moss should be prepared by drying and then rubbing through a
medium sieve to make even particles before adding to the mix.

If using River or Propagating Sand, sieve out the finest particles. Gravel of a
uniform/graded size could be used instead.

When repotting do not jab too hard with the chopstick as this will break the
granules down.

Large particles produce heavy root and heavy top growth while fine particles
produce fine roots and fine top growth - important for pines in particular and
any bonsai once the basic structure is established.


Ken