SaturAid is a ‘wetting agent’. Wetting agents work by breaking down the surface tension and allowing the water to penetrate into dry soils and the root zone.

SaturAid and Pots

SaturAid can be applied through the soil (at planting time) or to the top of pots and gardens.  Pots, gardens and lawns when dry will repel moisture. I’m sure all of us have watered dry pots or hanging baskets and noticed the water simply going in the top and draining out the bottom – a very frustrating exercise. Mature plants in containers can be very difficult to water thoroughly.

SaturAid allows your valuable water to penetrate to where it is needed the most – right into the middle of your plant. Ideally purchase a potting mix which contains SaturAid. If it doesn’t, SaturAid can be purchased separately and added to your mix prior to planting or a light dusting of SaturAid on top of existing pots is all you need to start the water flowing to your plants.
 

Saturaid and Raised Vegetable Beds

These can be particularly hard to keep well watered, especially if all the growing medium is completely made from compost which although great for growing plants can dry out quickly. When you replant use a light sprinkling of SaturAid throughout the bed – SaturAid lasts for many months and you will soon be aware of when it has run out as the water will start draining off the top again! If starting a new garden bed – mix SaturAid through the entire area.
 

Saturaid and Existing Gardens

Sprinkle SaturAid over the surface of the garden and if possible rake in slightly. The SaturAid will find its own way into the soil structure and your water will penetrate rather than be repelled.
 

Water Crystals

Water Crystals should be added to pots that are going to be in the full sun, especially if you are going to be leaving them unattended at any time over the summer. These swell up and hold water that the plants root system can access when your potting mix has dried out – always hydrate your crystals in a bucket before adding to your potting mix.
 

Hanging Baskets

Hanging baskets are fabulous but they dry out ever-so quickly. Sphagnum moss liners hold far more water than coconut liners. For really hot, dry spots a plastic saucer can be used inside at the base of the container to act as a reservoir or line internally with polythene. Water crystals are essential for baskets placed in full sun.
 

Saucers

Saucers under pots give plants an additional reservoir to draw from – choose a saucer that can hold a reasonable amount of water. Small stones can be placed in the saucer to prevent that neglected green mouldy look!