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How to maintain Crystal Soil alias water Pearls

I was once asked the question by a family friend on how one should take care of crystal soil aka water pearls.It then occured to me that what was common knowledge to me wasn’t common to all. And it wasnt just how to use water gel crystals that was important but how to ensure they last. Generally however, crystal soil will last over a year in both it’s hydrated and unhydrated state. I know friends who used it for over 18 months and even longer.

The care of these decorative water crystals is simple and straight forward. Unless you want to hydrate the water beads keep them away from water. Once they are hydrated and placed in a vase keep crystal soil away from direct sunlight as this will shorten their lifes and make them dry out.

If you are using water pearls for centerpieces then the water beads will last even longer as there are no plants or flowers to drink its water and apart from the gradual evaporation of water the water retaining gel as they are sometimes called will retain their full size for longer.

On the other hand if you are using the crystal soil gel for plants or floral arrangements or indoor plants sometimes called water crystal plants the crystal soil will eventually get smaller because of the gradual release of water to the plants or cut flowers. In such cases rehydrate crystal soil in water for a couple of hours and the water retaining gel will grow to its full size and form again. In addition if the crystal soil in a vase becomes cloudy simply remove the water beads wash them and simply place them back in your vase.

Crystal Soil which is a form of hydroponics or hydroculture also has the added advantage of being dirt free, pest free, environmentally green,biodegrable and non-toxic polymer crystals.

When your crystal eventually becomes spent and you want to recycle them you can empty them into you pot plants and mix it with the soil as it will keep the soil moist. Do not put spent water pearls down your drown. To purchase your water beads click here

About the Author

http://www.crystalsoil.com

has anyone had any experience washing one of those pillows with the really small Styrofoam beads?

The really squashey ones that became popular just a few years ago. The label says "wipe with damp cloth". I would really like to put it in the washer in cold water, delicate cycle. I don't think the styrofoam would be affected by the water. Any other experiences with these types of pillows?
Thanks! I will do that tonight!

With kids, I've HAD to wash mine. Delicate cycle, low setting in the dryer will be fine. If you try to air dry it, it will get a smell.

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