Here's an analysis of Lava and Bims as substrate additives, comparing their properties and suitability for different uses.

Lava vs. Bims: A Comparison as Substrate Additives

Lava

Both Lava and Bims are volcanic materials used as substrate additives in gardening and plant cultivation. They offer distinct advantages and are suitable for different purposes.

Lava is a volcanic rock that is a popular and important plant substrate.[1] It is a rein mineralisches Naturprodukt.[1]

Bims

• Properties: Lava is known for its high structural stability, even after heavy rain, and does not decompose or weather easily, leading to minimal settling.[1] It is also odorless and can store heat.[1] Lava provides a good soil structure with good aeration and water and nutrient storage properties.[1] It has a neutral pH and low salt content.[1]
• Uses: Lava is used in various applications, including as a mulch layer to suppress weed growth, in drainage layers, and as a component in roof greening and tree planting substrates.[1] It is also used in road construction and sports field construction.[1] Lava is suitable for use in hydroponics.[1]

Bims, also known as pumice, is a porous volcanic rock.[2]

Comparison

• Properties: Bims is a lightweight material with a porous structure that improves drainage and aeration in the soil.[2] It also stores moisture without causing waterlogging.[2] Bims is the lightest naturally porous material in gardening.[2]
• Uses: Bims is ideal for plants that require good drainage, such as cacti, succulents, and bonsai.[2] It is also used as a substrate additive for houseplants that prefer loose and breathable soil.[2] Bims is a Grund- und Zuschlagstoff für Substrate und zur Verbesserung von Böden bzw. als Sukkulentenerde (Kakteenerde) geeignet.[1]

Conclusion

• Drainage and Aeration: Both Lava and Bims improve drainage and aeration. Bims, with its porous structure, excels in providing excellent aeration.[2]
• Water Retention: Both materials can store water, but Bims is particularly noted for its water-retention capabilities.[2]
• Structure and Stability: Lava is known for its high structural stability, which makes it suitable for applications where long-term stability is required.[1]
• Weight: Bims is lighter than Lava.[2]
• pH: Both materials have a neutral pH, making them suitable for various plant types.[1]
• Nutrient Storage: Both materials can store nutrients.[2]

Both Lava and Bims are valuable substrate additives. Lava is particularly suitable where high stability and drainage are needed, while Bims is excellent for improving aeration and water retention, especially for plants that prefer well-draining soil. The choice between them depends on the specific needs of the plants and the desired characteristics of the growing medium.

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