A special substrate, particularly appreciated by bonsai enthusiasts, akadama is actually the contraction of the Japanese phrase aka dama tsuchi (aka = red, dama = ball, ball, tsuchi = earth), more precisely, earth, red granular soil.

A granular mineral compound, similar to thermally unprocessed clay or clay, of natural, volcanic origin, is collected only in Japan , through surface extraction, sifted to separate the various granules and packaged locally, to be used in the horticultural field either as a single substrate, on its own, as well as as an amendment in various substrate mixtures, along with sand, conifer bark, peat compost, volcanic tuff or ceramic granules.

The average grain size of the akadama particles is in the range of 2-6.5 mm, and the fine one, in the values ​​of 1-2 mm. Contains silicon dioxide (42.7%), calcium oxide (0.98%), magnesium oxide (2.5%), manganese oxide (0.15%), iron oxide (8.4%) , aluminum oxide (25.1%).

The specific pH of Akadama soil is 6.9, indicating a neutral - slightly acidic soil.

This product is particularly appreciated by horticulturists, despite the higher price, due to its ability to retain water and nutrients, at the same time conferring a high porosity and efficient drainage, to prevent water stagnation in the root zone.

An advantage of using this product is represented by the granulate's reaction to the presence of water, in the wet phase its color is visibly darker, this aspect indicating to horticulturists when irrigation is necessary.

Akadama soil can be successfully used for growing bonsai, succulent plants, cacti, where it will represent either the sole substrate or the main component of the mix used.

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