At SA Horticultural Supplies, we’re proud to bring our customers access to the latest and most sustainable growing innovations. One of our newest offerings is the Dutch Plantin Grow Bag, a product designed to transform the way you grow fruiting crops such as peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, and berries. Whether you’re a commercial grower or a hobbyist gardener, these grow bags combine sustainability, efficiency, and reliability in one smart solution.

Why Choose Dutch Plantin Grow Bags?

The Dutch Plantin Grow Bag is made from 100% organic material and is completely peat-free, offering growers an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional substrates. Thanks to a unique production process, the bags maintain low sodium and chloride levels, ensuring a clean and healthy growing environment.

Unlike traditional soil, these grow bags are stable and reusable, making them suitable for multiple growing cycles and different crop types. This durability makes them a cost-effective choice, while also helping reduce waste in horticultural operations.

Superior Growing Performance

One of the key benefits of the Dutch Plantin Grow Bag is its ability to maintain a high air percentage throughout the entire cultivation period. This means roots get the oxygen they need to thrive, leading to stronger, healthier plants.

In addition, the bags have excellent moisture-retaining properties, ensuring crops receive consistent hydration while reducing the risk of over- or under-watering. With the right irrigation system—such as drip irrigation—these bags make it easy to achieve optimal water management.

For growers facing challenges with poor soil quality or soil-borne diseases, the Dutch Plantin Grow Bag provides a reliable alternative. It eliminates the risk of soil pathogens and minimizes the need for chemical treatments, creating a cleaner and safer environment for your crops.

Sustainable and Resource-Saving

Water scarcity is becoming an increasing challenge worldwide. Dutch Plantin Grow Bags are specifically designed to reduce fresh water usage, helping growers save considerable amounts while maintaining high productivity. They also require less fertiliser than traditional soil, lowering input costs and contributing to more sustainable farming practices.

Certified Quality and Responsibility

Dutch Plantin is committed to meeting the highest environmental and social standards. Their grow bags carry internationally recognized certifications, including:

• Higg Certificate (2023): Awarded for strong environmental management and fair labor practices.
• IMO India Certification: Guarantees sustainable, organic farming and processing methods.
• SA8000: A global standard for social responsibility, ensuring worker health, safety, and well-being.
• RHP Quality Mark: Verifying consistency, safety, and reliability for professional horticulture.

These certifications give growers peace of mind that they are investing in a product that benefits both their crops and the planet.

Product Features at a Glance

• 100% organic, peat-free substrate
• Low sodium and chloride content
• Reusable across multiple growing cycles
• High air content for optimal root health
• Excellent moisture retention
• Saves water and fertiliser
• 15 litres when expanded, with 3–4 planting holes
• Ideal for peppers, berries, tomatoes, and cucumbers

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Available Now at SA Horticultural Supplies
The Dutch Plantin Grow Bag is more than just a growing medium—it’s a step towards more sustainable, efficient, and profitable cultivation. .

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By growing plants in nutrient-rich water instead of soil, hydroponics offers greater control, faster growth, and higher yields. At SA Horticultural Supplies, we’re often asked about the basics of hydroponics and what’s needed to get started. Below, we’ve put together answers to five of the most common questions — along with some product recommendations to help you succeed.

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1. What exactly is hydroponics?

Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil. Instead, plants are supported by a growing medium (such as perlite, coco peat blocks, or vermiculite), while their roots are supplied with a water-based nutrient solution. Because the nutrients are delivered directly to the roots, plants often grow faster and healthier compared to traditional soil cultivation.

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2. What are the benefits of hydroponics?

Hydroponics offers several advantages:

• Faster plant growth and higher yields
• Reduced water usage compared to soil gardening
• Precise control over nutrients and pH
• The ability to grow year-round, regardless of climate
• Fewer soil-borne pests and diseases

For anyone looking to maximize efficiency, hydroponics provides a clear edge.

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3. Which growing medium should I use?

The growing medium you choose depends on your crop and system:

• Perlite: Lightweight, provides excellent aeration, and prevents root rot.
• Coco Peat Blocks – 5kg: Great water retention and a sustainable choice; available in both washed and unwashed options.
• Vermiculite: Retains moisture and nutrients well, making it useful in combination with other substrates.

Many growers experiment to find the perfect balance. A mix of perlite and coco peat, for example, offers both drainage and water retention.

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4. Do I need special nutrients for hydroponics?

Yes. Standard garden fertilizers aren’t suitable for hydroponics because they lack the right balance of water-soluble nutrients. Hydroponic nutrients are specifically formulated to provide plants with everything they need in the right ratios. At SA Horticultural Supplies, we stock a range of nutrient solutions that work across leafy greens, herbs, and flowering plants. Pairing nutrients with the right pH test kits and meters ensures optimal uptake by the roots.

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5. Is hydroponics only for commercial growers?

Not at all. While hydroponics is widely used by large-scale operations, it’s also perfect for home gardeners. Compact systems can be set up indoors, on balconies, or in small greenhouses. With the right growing media and a basic starter kit, anyone can begin experimenting with hydroponics at home.

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Final Thoughts

Hydroponics is an exciting way to grow — whether you’re producing herbs on your kitchen counter or scaling up to commercial production. By choosing the right growing medium, nutrients, and equipment, you’ll set yourself up for healthy plants and reliable yields.

Explore our full range of hydroponic growing media, coco peat blocks, vermiculite, and perlite to get started today.

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Maintaining the right pH level is crucial for a thriving hydroponic
system. If your pH drifts too high or too low, your plants won’t be
able to absorb the nutrients they need — even if those nutrients are
present in abundance. So, when should you check and measure the pH in
your hydro setup?

How often should I monitor the pH of my hydroponic system?

For optimal growth, it’s best to check the pH of your hydroponic
system every day. pH can fluctuate as plants absorb nutrients, as
water evaporates, or as you add fresh water and nutrients to the reservoir.
Daily monitoring allows you to catch small changes before they become
big problems.

Using a pH meter makes this process quick and accurate. Unlike test
strips, a digital pH meter gives you a precise reading within seconds,
so you can adjust as needed without guesswork. Make sure to calibrate
your meter regularly for reliable results.

When should I monitor the pH of my hydroponic system?

Anytime you add nutrients or top up your water reservoir, it’s
essential to measure the pH. Nutrients can shift pH levels, especially
in concentrated formulas. Even plain water can alter pH, depending on
its source and natural mineral content.

Once you’ve added your nutrients or adjusted water levels, let the
solution mix for at least 30 minutes, then test the pH. If it’s
outside the ideal range (usually 5.5–6.5 for most plants), use pH up
or pH down solutions to bring it back in line.

1. When Plants Show Nutrient Deficiencies

Are your plants looking unhealthy despite regular feeding? Discoloured
leaves, stunted growth, or strange spotting could indicate nutrient
lockout caused by incorrect pH levels. If your plants can’t access
nutrients, they’ll show symptoms.

Before you panic and start adding more nutrients, test your pH. You
might find that simply balancing the pH solves the issue without the
need for extra additives.

2. After Cleaning or Flushing the System

Regular cleaning and occasional system flushes help prevent root rot
and nutrient buildup, but they can also affect pH. After cleaning with
hydrogen peroxide or flushing with plain water, always test and adjust
the pH before reintroducing plants to the system.

Hydrogen peroxide is especially useful for sterilizing hydro
components and oxygenating the root zone, but it can slightly raise pH levels.
Keep your meter handy to fine-tune the balance after cleaning.

Final Thoughts

pH management is one of the most important aspects of hydroponic
success. Daily checks, post-maintenance tests, and quick adjustments
with the right products will keep your system stable and your plants
thriving.

If you need reliable tools to stay on top of your system’s pH, check
out our range of pH meters, pH up/down solutions, and hydrogen
peroxide. A little diligence goes a long way, and with the right
supplies, healthy hydroponic plants are within easy reach!

1. Appearance:

Raw perlite is black or gray, but after processing, it turns a bright white due to its expanded, porous structure.

2. Expansion Process:

When perlite is heated to around 1,000°C (1,832°F), the trapped water vaporizes, causing the material to expand up to 20 times its original volume.

3. Porous Structure:

The heating process gives perlite a unique, lightweight, and porous structure, which makes it ideal for water retention and aeration in soils.

4. pH Neutral:

Perlite has a neutral pH of around 7, meaning it doesn’t alter the acidity of the soil it’s mixed into.

5. Reusability:

Perlite is inert, so it can be reused in gardening and horticulture after being sterilized.

6. Natural Insulator:

Expanded perlite has excellent insulation properties and is often used in construction to insulate walls, floors, and roofs.

7. Water Retention:

Perlite can hold up to four times its weight in water, which helps keep roots moist while allowing for excellent drainage.

8. Good Drainage:

Its porous nature improves soil aeration and drainage, preventing waterlogging in soil mixes.

9. Lightweight:

Expanded perlite is extremely lightweight, making it easy to handle and reducing the weight load in potted plants or roof gardens.

10. Odorless:

Perlite is completely odorless, which makes it a pleasant addition to indoor potting mixes.

11. Pest-Resistant:

Perlite doesn’t provide nutrients or organic matter for pests, so it’s resistant to infestation.

12. Sterile Material:

It’s sterile and free from weed seeds, diseases, or pests, which is ideal for starting seeds and propagating plants.

13. Recyclable:

Perlite is a recyclable material, making it an eco-friendly choice for horticulture and construction.

14. Aeration Properties:

It helps maintain soil aeration, which is essential for healthy root growth and oxygen exchange.

15. Chemically Inert:

Perlite doesn’t react chemically with other substances, which makes it stable and non-reactive.

16. Nutrient-Free:

Unlike soil, perlite doesn’t contain any nutrients on its own, so it’s usually mixed with other media that provide nutrients.

17. Hydroponic Uses:

Perlite is commonly used in hydroponics as a soil alternative due to its water retention and aeration capabilities.

18. Low Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC):

Perlite has low CEC, meaning it doesn’t hold onto nutrients, making it a better additive than a stand-alone medium.

19. Origins in Nature:

The formation of perlite dates back millions of years, originating from volcanic activity.

20. Temperature Tolerance:

It has a high melting point and doesn’t decompose at high temperatures, making it suitable for various industrial applications.

21. Environmental Impact:

Extracting perlite has a low environmental impact compared to other mined minerals.

22. Fire Resistant:

Perlite is fire-resistant, which is why it’s often used in fireproofing applications in construction.

23. Soundproofing:

It is also used in soundproofing applications due to its porous structure.

24. Widely Found:

Major perlite deposits are found in the USA, Greece, Turkey, and Japan. At SA Horticulture, we use South African mined perlite.

25. Seed Starting:

It’s a popular medium for seed starting as it provides the right moisture retention and drainage balance. Ideally, perlite should be mixed with coco peat, not used on its own.

26. Available in Grades:

Perlite is available in fine, medium, and coarse grades. We use medium grade perlite in horticulture.

27. Hydrophobic Nature:

Expanded perlite is hydrophobic initially but will absorb water over time, which helps in evenly distributing water in soil mixes.

28. Affordable:

Perlite is relatively inexpensive and readily available, making it accessible to gardeners and horticulturists.

29. Breathable Soil:

It improves soil aeration, which is essential for preventing root rot in potted plants.

30. Alternative to Sand:

In potting mixes, perlite often serves as an alternative to sand for improving drainage. 

31. High Porosity:

Perlite’s porosity means it creates spaces in soil for oxygen, critical for root and plant health.

32. Light Reflectivity:

Perlite reflects light, helping reduce soil temperature and potentially enhancing plant growth. It’s an ideal as a soil topping for indoor plants or in the greenhouse.

33. Construction Applications:

Beyond horticulture, perlite is used in cement, plaster, and other building materials to enhance insulation.

34. Neutral TDS:

Perlite doesn’t contribute to total dissolved solids (TDS) in water, making it a stable substrate for sensitive plants.

35. Non-Decomposing:

Perlite doesn’t decompose over time, maintaining its structure and properties for long-term use in soil.

36. Erosion Control:

It is used in landscaping to control erosion by enhancing soil structure and reducing compaction.

37. pH Stabilizer:

Perlite doesn’t affect pH levels and acts as a stabilizer in pH-sensitive environments.

38. High Silica Content:

It contains about 70-75% silica, which is essential in many industrial and agricultural processes.

39. Doesn’t Compact:

Unlike organic materials, perlite doesn’t compact, keeping soil light and fluffy.

40. Enhanced Root Growth:

By improving aeration and drainage, perlite promotes stronger and healthier root systems.

41. No Nutrient Leaching:

Perlite doesn’t retain fertilizers, so nutrients reach the plant roots effectively without build-up.

42. Safe for Aquatic Plants:

It’s often used for aquatic plants as it provides stability without altering water chemistry.

43. Long Lifespan:

Perlite’s structure is resilient and doesn’t degrade over time, providing a lasting soil amendment.

44. Resists Algae Growth:

Perlite resists algae growth in its particles, keeping soil free from contamination.

45. Protects Seeds:

It helps protect seeds during germination by providing moisture and temperature regulation.

46. Used in Succulent Mixes:

Perlite is popular in cactus and succulent soil mixes due to its excellent drainage properties.

47. Widely Adaptable:

Whether in hot or cold climates, perlite maintains its structure and function, making it adaptable for diverse environments.

Shop perlite here.

Cocopeat is a popular, eco-friendly growing medium used in horticulture for its excellent water retention, aeration, and sustainability. Made from the fibrous husk of coconut shells, cocopeat provides a versatile alternative to peat moss and soil mixes. However, not all cocopeat is the same, and one of the primary distinctions you’ll encounter is between washed and unwashed cocopeat. Understanding the differences between these types can help you choose the one best suited to your plants and growing environment.

Cultivation and Composition of Cocopeat

Also known as coir pith or coco coir, cocopeat is a by-product of coconut processing. Once coconuts are harvested, their husks are processed, breaking down the fibers into a fine material that retains water and nutrients efficiently. This raw form of cocopeat naturally contains salts and minerals, depending on where and how the coconuts were grown.

The quality and mineral content of cocopeat can vary by origin and processing methods. Unwashed cocopeat retains these natural salts, while washed cocopeat undergoes additional rinsing to remove salts and lower its electrical conductivity (EC). This difference in processing influences how each type of cocopeat interacts with plants, especially in systems where nutrient balance is crucial, such as hydroponics.

What is an EC Level?

Electrical conductivity (EC) measures a substance’s ability to conduct electricity, which in cocopeat reflects its salt levels. This is an essential factor for plants because high salt levels can hinder nutrient absorption, impacting plant health and growth.

• Low EC cocopeat (washed) is suitable for sensitive plants and hydroponic systems, where nutrient balance is carefully monitored.
• High EC cocopeat (unwashed) can be appropriate for salt-tolerant plants or for growers prepared to treat the medium before use.

Most washed cocopeat has a low EC level, typically around 0.5–0.8 mS/cm, while unwashed cocopeat can have EC levels above 2.0 mS/cm. For those using cocopeat as a primary medium, especially in hydroponics, understanding and managing the EC level is essential.

Is Washed or Unwashed Cocopeat the Right Choice for You?

Choosing between washed and unwashed cocopeat depends on your plants’ salt tolerance, cultivation method, and the amount of preparation you’re willing to put in. Let’s explore the specific benefits of each option:

Washed Cocopeat

Washed cocopeat undergoes a rinsing process to reduce salt levels, making it a popular choice in situations where sensitive plants or controlled nutrient environments are involved. Key advantages include:

• Lower Salt Content: The rinsing process leaves washed cocopeat with a low EC level, making it ideal for hydroponic systems and any application requiring careful nutrient management.
• Ready for Immediate Use: With little to no preparation required, washed cocopeat is a convenient option for growers who want a ready-to-use medium.
• Safe for Sensitive Plants: Low-salt cocopeat is beneficial for plants with low tolerance to salts, such as seedlings, leafy greens, and many ornamentals, as it reduces the risk of nutrient lockout.

Washed cocopeat is an ideal choice for hydroponic setups, sensitive plants, or anyone who wants a simple, low-maintenance solution that’s ready for immediate use.

Unwashed Cocopeat

Unwashed cocopeat skips the rinsing stage, retaining its natural salts and minerals. This can be advantageous in certain applications, although some preparation may be needed. Here’s what to consider with unwashed cocopeat:

• Higher Salt Content: Due to its naturally high EC levels, unwashed cocopeat is better suited to salt-tolerant plants or applications where rinsing and soaking can be managed.
• Suitable for Salt-Tolerant Crops: Certain plants, such as tomatoes, peppers, and other salt-resilient crops, may perform well in unwashed cocopeat.
• Additional Preparation: Unwashed cocopeat can benefit from pre-soaking in fresh water or a calcium-magnesium solution to flush out salts and reduce EC. This step is especially helpful for plants that are sensitive to salt, allowing you to customize the medium for broader use.

Unwashed cocopeat is a practical choice for outdoor gardens, salt-tolerant plants, or for growers willing to prepare the medium before planting. With some effort, you can enjoy the same water retention and aeration benefits of cocopeat while managing salt levels as needed.

Conclusion

The choice between washed and unwashed cocopeat ultimately depends on your plants’ requirements and your growing environment. Washed cocopeat is a convenient, low-salt option suited for hydroponics and sensitive plants, offering a ready-to-use solution. Unwashed cocopeat, on the other hand, can be an excellent option for salt-tolerant plants or outdoor gardens where additional rinsing is manageable.

Both washed and unwashed cocopeat provide sustainable, eco-friendly benefits as a growing medium. By understanding their differences and assessing your specific growing needs, you can make the best choice to help your plants thrive with the full potential of cocopeat.

Shop cocopeat here

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Epsom salts, scientifically known as magnesium sulphate, are a versatile and essential tool for any gardener. Whether you’re growing vegetables, flowers, or niche plants, Epsom salts can provide numerous benefits that enhance plant health and growth. Understanding the various uses of Epsom salts can help you integrate this valuable resource into your gardening routine effectively.

1. Enhancing Seed Germination

One of the primary uses of Epsom salts in gardening is to improve seed germination. Magnesium, a key component of epsom salts, is vital for seed development. Soaking seeds in a solution of epsom salts before planting can help soften the seed coat, allowing for faster and more robust germination. To do this, dissolve one tablespoon of Epsom salts in a gallon of water and soak the seeds for a few hours before planting.

2. Boosting Nutrient Absorption

Epsom salts improve nutrient absorption in plants, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus. Magnesium plays a crucial role in photosynthesis, helping plants convert sunlight into energy. By adding epsom salts to your soil, you ensure that your plants can absorb essential nutrients more efficiently, leading to healthier and more vigorous growth. A common application method is to mix one tablespoon of epsom salts with a gallon of water and use it as a foliar spray or soil drench once a month.

3. Correcting Magnesium Deficiencies

Magnesium deficiencies are common in many types of soil, especially sandy or acidic soils. Symptoms of magnesium deficiency include yellowing leaves with green veins (chlorosis), stunted growth, and poor fruit production. Epsom salts provide a quick and effective solution to this problem. Sprinkle epsom salts around the base of the plants (about one tablespoon per 30cm of plant height) and water thoroughly. This method ensures that the magnesium is absorbed directly through the roots.

4. Improving Flowering and Fruit Production

For flowering plants and fruit-bearing crops, epsom salts can significantly enhance blooming and fruit set. Magnesium is a key element in the production of chlorophyll and plays a vital role in photosynthesis, which is essential for flower and fruit development. Regular application of epsom salts can result in more vibrant blooms and a higher yield of fruits. For best results, apply a solution of one tablespoon of epsom salts per 4l of water to the soil or as a foliar spray every two weeks during the growing season.

5. Deterring Pests

Epsom salts can also be used as a natural pest deterrent. Slugs and snails, common garden pests, are deterred by the magnesium sulphate in epsom salts. Sprinkle around the base of plants or in areas where these pests are prevalent. The salts will create a barrier that slugs and snails are reluctant to cross, protecting your plants from damage.

6. Soil Conditioning

Improving soil structure and health is another benefit of using epsom salts. Over time, soil can become compacted and lose its fertility. Epsom salts help to loosen the soil, making it more porous and improving drainage. This is particularly beneficial for clay soils, which can be heavy and difficult for roots to penetrate. Mix epsom salts into the soil at a rate of one cup per 10 square meters before planting to enhance soil quality.

7. Reviving Transplanted Plants

Transplanting can be a stressful process for plants, often leading to transplant shock. Epsom salts can help ease this transition by providing essential nutrients that support root development and overall plant health. After transplanting, water the plants with a solution of one tablespoon of epsom salts per 4l of water. This will help the plants recover more quickly and establish themselves in their new location.

Conclusion

Epsom salts are a valuable addition to any gardener’s toolkit, offering numerous benefits that promote plant health and growth. From enhancing seed germination to improving nutrient absorption, correcting magnesium deficiencies, boosting flowering and fruit production, deterring pests, conditioning soil, and reviving transplanted plants, epsom salts prove to be a versatile and effective gardening aid. By incorporating epsom salts into your gardening routine, you can enjoy healthier, more vibrant plants and a more productive garden. Happy gardening!

Note: you can shop our epsom salts here