Brief introduction
This article is about potassium polyacrylate (super absorbent polymer for plants) used in the desert.
About Potassium Polyacrylate
Potassium polyacrylate, also called a water-retaining agent, can absorb/retain huge water for plants.
Just like a “mini-reservoir”, potassium polyacrylate can substantially increase the water holding capacity of the soil.
Use it in desert
The Desert may be the driest place in the world. Most plants would die for lack of water.
There are three negative points that limit the function of potassium polyacrylate:
- The infiltration rate of sand soil is too fast to be absorbed by potassium polyacrylate;
- Strong ultraviolet ray would melt the potassium polyacrylate gel;
- The high temperature would reduce the lifetime of potassium polyacrylate.
So, does potassium polyacrylate work in the desert?
The answer is yes if we adjust the usage method:
- Let potassium polyacrylate fully absorb water (in drum or some vessel) before put into the soil;
- Deeply put potassium polyacrylate gel into the soil more than 20 cm (to avoid the ultraviolet ray and high temperature);
- Apply the improved potassium polyacrylate.