Turface technique

[Jim McClements, Dover, DE z6]

In a message dated 9/7/99 9:00:25 PM, Rob.McClure at SCI.MONASH.EDU.AU writes:

<< For the benefit of the non -americans on the list please
describe what Turface is.
We had this discussion on a list quite a while ago but a 'refresh'
would be good for the newer members, and ones like me who have
forgotten. >>

Rob

Turface is "calcined clay", that is, a clay that has been fired to a high
enough temperature to make it into stable particles that are porous and will
absorb water. It is similar to cat litter, except that it has been heated to
a higher temperature. It was originally marketed as a substance to spread on
wet baseball fields to absorb excess water.

There is a similar substance sold in the UK, but the name escapes me at the
moment. If there's something like it in Australia, I'm not aware of it.

There is also a product called "Axis", made from diatomaceous earth, which
has similar qualities, and there has recently appeared another called
"Permatill" made from fired slate, very stable and porous, which is said to
have the additional virtue of being able to repel rodents if bulbs are
planted in a pocket of it. It's sold primarily as a soil additive, to be
tilled into clay soils to improve drainage.  It can be used in a potting mix,
but is heavier than either Turface or Axis, and possibly less
water-absorbent? I understand that Tony Avent, of Plant Delights Nursery, has
been using Permatil for a few years. Perhaps he will make some comments.

Jim McClements