Chamaedorea metallica
Tuft (Bims)
1CHMEBP12
At Nieuwkoop Europe, we constantly strive for innovation and the improvement of our business processes and activities. As part of our strategic pillar of innovation, we are now researching a new hydroculture substrate: Bims. In this article, you will learn everything about this new type of substrate.
What is Bims?
Bims is a type of German pumice stone, specifically from the Vulkaneifel region in Germany. This volcanic rock is inorganic and known for its porous properties. It is a valuable addition to existing substrates within hydroculture, such as hydro granules. The function of Bims is similar to that of hydro granules: the substrate is capable of holding and gradually releasing water and nutrients to the plant.
Positive results
In recent months, we have tested various plant species on the Bims substrate. The results are positive. A significant advantage of Bims is that it enables plants to root better, developing stronger roots. This promotes plant growth and results in less plant loss.
Plant species that sometimes showed difficult rooting on hydro granules are thriving on Bims. This opens the door to an even more extensive range of plant species on hydroculture. Currently, there are already a number of plants available on Bims. We are researching which other plants are suitable for this, and expect to expand our hydroculture range in the future. We will, of course, keep you updated on this.
Use and maintenance
Bims is a type of substrate within the hydroculture system, so no soil is involved. This means that the care of plants on Bims does not require a different approach than for plants on hydro granules. Plants on Bims can also be mixed well with plants on hydro granules in a planter. This offers flexibility when you choose to pot plants on Bims and further fill up with hydro granules. Keep in mind that Bims is slightly heavier than hydro granules.