Sawdust is a widely available and cost-effective material that can be used as a soilless growing medium. It has several beneficial properties when used in hydroponic or soilless cultivation systems:
The lightweight sawdust matrix is similar in weight to perlite and vermiculite, making it ideal for long-distance transport or high-rise plant cultivation. Its low bulk density ensures good aeration and ease of handling.
Sawdust has excellent water absorption and drainage properties. It is well-suited for plants with thick roots, as it provides the right balance of moisture and air. In humid regions like southern cities or coastal areas, the moisture retention of sawdust is particularly advantageous. However, in dry northern regions, the high permeability of sawdust may lead to rapid drying, which can harm plant roots. To address this, it's recommended to mix sawdust with peat moss to improve moisture retention.
Despite its benefits, raw sawdust is not immediately suitable for use due to its high carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratio—approximately 58.4% carbon, 0.26% nitrogen, 0.08% hydrogen, and 2.6% ash. This makes it difficult for microorganisms to break down naturally, often taking one to two years. Using a biological starter like Gumbol can significantly speed up the fermentation process. However, proper management is essential, especially adjusting the C/N ratio. Adding a nitrogen source such as urea or poultry manure is crucial to achieve an optimal balance for effective decomposition.
Here’s how to prepare the fermented sawdust:
1. **Material Preparation**: For every 2 cubic meters of sawdust, you’ll need one bag of microbial fermentation agent, 2 kg of urea (or 50–100 kg of poultry manure), and 5 kg of rice bran.
2. **Moisture Adjustment**: Before starting, check the moisture level of the sawdust. The ideal moisture content should be around 60–65%. A simple way to test is by squeezing a handful of sawdust—if no water drips out, it’s ready. If too wet or too dry, adjust accordingly. Mix 2 kg of urea with water to create a urea solution.
3. **Mixing and Spreading**: To make application easier, mix the microbial agent evenly with 5 kg of rice bran. This helps distribute the microbes more uniformly. Spread the mixture over the sawdust pile and sprinkle the urea solution on top. Then, form a pile and cover it with a breathable material to maintain heat and moisture.
4. **Turning the Pile**: After 7–10 days, the temperature inside the pile will reach about 60°C. At this point, turn the pile once and let it rest for 24–36 hours. When the temperature rises again, turn it a second time. After the second turning, leave it undisturbed for 5–7 days until the temperature stabilizes below 40°C. This indicates that the fermentation is complete. Under normal conditions, the process takes 25–30 days, but it can extend to 30–45 days if the material is "cooked" further.
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