Akadama
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[edit] Akadama
Janpanese: AKA(red)+DAMA(ball).
Akadama is a granular, baked calcined clay from Japan that is used as soil for bonsai trees . Akadama may also act as one component of bonsai soil when combined with other elements such as sand, tree bark, peat, or gravel. The clay’s colour darkens when moist which can help the grower determine when to water a tree.
While Akadama is more costly than alternative soil components, it is prized by many growers for its ability to retain water and nutrients while still providing porosity and free-drainage. For all of its qualities, many bonsai growers consider the cost of akadama prohibitive or unnecessary. Still other growers claim that when subjected to cold and wet climates the clay granules progressively brake down into smaller particles which inhibit drainage, which is an essential characteristic of bonsai soil.fr:Akadama
