Sawdust is commonly transformed into a soilless growing medium, offering an affordable and effective alternative for hydroponic or soilless cultivation. It has several beneficial properties that make it suitable for various agricultural applications. One of its key advantages is its lightweight nature, which makes it ideal for long-distance transport or high-rise plant cultivation. Its bulk density is comparable to that of perlite and vermiculite, making it a practical choice for growers looking for a cost-effective substrate.
In terms of water retention and drainage, sawdust performs well. It absorbs and holds moisture effectively while allowing good air circulation, which is essential for healthy root development. Plants with thick roots often thrive in this environment, as the moisture balance aligns with their needs. For plants with fine roots, especially in humid regions like southern cities or coastal areas, sawdust provides an optimal moisture level. However, in dry northern regions, the high permeability of sawdust can lead to rapid drying, potentially harming plant roots. To mitigate this, it's recommended to mix sawdust with peat moss, which helps retain moisture more effectively.
Despite its benefits, sawdust has a high carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratio—approximately 58.4% carbon, 0.26% nitrogen, 0.08% hydrogen, and 2.6% ash. This makes it challenging to decompose naturally, as the process can take one to two years without assistance. To speed up decomposition, biological starters such as Gumbol can be used. These microbial agents help break down organic matter more efficiently. However, proper management is crucial, particularly in balancing the C/N ratio. Adding a nitrogen source, such as urea or poultry manure, is necessary to create an ideal environment for microbial activity during fermentation.
The fermentation process involves several steps. First, prepare the materials: 2 cubic meters of sawdust, one bag of microbial starter, 2 kg of urea (or 50–100 kg of poultry manure), and 5 kg of rice bran. Next, adjust the moisture content of the sawdust to around 60–65%, which can be checked by squeezing a handful—if no water drips out, it’s ready. Prepare a urea solution by mixing 2 kg of urea with water. Then, evenly distribute the microbial starter mixed with rice bran into the sawdust pile. Sprinkle the urea solution over the mixture and form a pile, covering it with a breathable material to promote fermentation.
After 7–10 days, the temperature inside the pile should reach about 60°C. At this point, turn the pile once and let it rest for 24–36 hours. Repeat the turning process when the temperature rises again to 60°C. After the second turn, allow the pile to rest for 5–7 days until the temperature stabilizes below 40°C, indicating that fermentation is complete. Under normal conditions, the entire process takes 25–30 days, but it can extend to 30–45 days if the material is "post-cooked" for further breakdown. For more details, visit the official website or consult with an expert.
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