How To Use Water Retainer

1) What is Akili’s water retainer?

A water retainer is a substance that is added to soil or other growing media to improve its ability to retain water. Water retainers work by absorbing and holding onto water, making it available to plants for a longer period of time. Akili’s natural and/polymer based water retainers are specifically formulated to do just that: absorb moisture or water and retain it in the soil to keep the plants well hydrated. 

Here’s a step by step process on how a water retainer works:

  1. Absorption: Water retainers are typically made from materials that have a high capacity to absorb water, such as polymers, hydrogels, or natural substances like peat moss. When mixed into soil or other growing media, the water retainer absorbs water like a sponge, swelling up and holding onto the water.
  2. Retention: Once the water retainer has absorbed water, it holds onto it tightly, making it available to plants for a longer period of time. This helps to prevent water from evaporating from the soil surface, and reduces the need for frequent watering.
  3. Release: Over time, the water retained by the water retainer is released back into the soil, making it available to plants again. This slow release of water can help to maintain a consistent level of soil moisture, even during periods of drought or dry weather.

In summary, a water retainer works by absorbing and holding onto water, reducing the need for frequent watering and improving plant growth. By increasing the water-holding capacity of soil or other growing media, water retainers can help plants survive and thrive in conditions of limited water availability.

Our Akili water retainer can help reduce the use of water by 50%. 

2) How do I use Akili’s Water Retainer?

Water retainers are typically available in the form of granules or powder that can be mixed with soil or other growing media. We recommend mixing our water retainer with biochar to reap maximum benefits. Here are the steps to using our water retainer:

  1. Determine the appropriate amount: The amount of water retainer to use will depend on the type of plant, the size of the container, and the water retention capacity of the soil. A general guideline is to use 1-2 grams of water retainer per liter of soil or growing media.
  2. Mix the water retainer with biochar: We recommend mixing the water retainer with biochar in a 1:1 ratio. 
  3. Mix the water retainer with soil: Mix the appropriate amount of water retainer into the soil or other growing media before planting. It is important to mix the water retainer thoroughly to ensure that it is evenly distributed.
  4. Water thoroughly: After planting, water the soil or growing media thoroughly to activate the water retainer. This will help to ensure that the water retainer absorbs water and begins to hold onto it.
  5. Monitor soil moisture: Check the soil moisture regularly to determine how often to water. Depending on the size of the container and the type of plant, you may need to water less frequently than you would without a water retainer. It is important not to overwater, as this can lead to waterlogging and root rot.
  6. Reapply as needed: Depending on the duration of the growing season, you may need to reapply the water retainer at some point. Follow the instructions on the product label to determine the appropriate frequency of application.

It is important to note that water retainers are not a substitute for proper watering practices. While they can help to reduce the need for frequent watering, it is still important to water plants regularly and appropriately for their specific needs.

3) What to use the water retainer on?

Akili Technologies Water Retainer can be used on agricultural fields for crop farming and tree planting or home gardens, landscaping for lawns or in horticulture. To use, follow the below steps:

  • What you’ll need:
  1. Water retainer
  2. Manure or compost 
  3. A bucket
  4. A pair of gardening gloves
4) What factors determine the type of water retainer to add to soil?

The type of water retainer to add to soil will depend on several factors, including:

  1. Soil type: The type of soil can play a significant role in determining the type of water retainer to add. Some soil types, such as sandy soil, tend to drain water quickly and require water retainers that can hold more water (perhaps the super water retainer?). In contrast, clay soils may hold water for longer periods and require less water retainer.
  2. Climate: The climate in the region can also be a factor in determining the type of water retainer to add. Areas with high temperatures and low rainfall may require water retainers that can hold more water to help crops survive during drought conditions. The super or premium water retainer would work for such conditions. 
  3. Crop type: The type of crop being grown can also influence the choice of water retainer. Some crops may require more water and will benefit from water retainers that can hold larger volumes of water. For example, maize and tomatoes do well with more water, as opposed to crops such as cassava and millet. 
  4. Budget: The cost of different water retainers can also influence the purchasing decisions of a customer. .

By taking into account these factors, it is possible to determine the type of water retainer that will be most effective in improving the soil’s ability to retain water and support healthy crop growth.

5) What factors determine the amount of water retainer to add to soil?

The amount of water retainer to add to soil will depend on several factors, including:

  1. Soil type: The soil type will determine the amount of water the soil can hold. Soil with high sand content, for instance, will require more water retainer than clay soils. You may also want to consider the type of water retainer to use -go for higher quality and high strength like the premium water retainer – if this is the type of soil you are dealing with.
  2. Crop type: Different crops have different water requirements, which means the amount of water retainer needed will vary depending on the crop. For example, crops such as rice, sugarcane and wheat require a lot of water to grow, while crops such as peanuts, millet and sorghum require less water. 
  3. Climate: The climate in the region will also be a factor. Areas with high temperatures and low rainfall may require more water retainer than areas with cooler temperatures and more precipitation.
  4. Desired water holding capacity: The desired water holding capacity of the soil will determine how much water retainer is needed. This will depend on the irrigation system used, the expected rainfall, and the water requirements of the crop. For instance, the less the rainfall, the more water retainer will be needed. 
  5. Available budget: The budget available for purchasing a water retainer will also be a factor. Regardless of the cost, we recommend purchasing the type of water retainer that matches your needs. That is, if you are growing crops that need more water, and are currently short on water availability, go for the super or premium water retainer. 
  6. Size of the area: The size of the area that needs to be covered by the water retainer will also determine the amount of retainer required. The larger the land, the more the water retainer needed. 

In general, the amount of water retainer needed will be determined by a combination of these factors. A soil analysis and consultation with an expert in the field can help to determine the most appropriate amount of water retainer to add to the soil for optimal crop growth and yield.

6) How much water retainer should I use on an acre of maize?

The amount of water retainer to use on an acre of maize will depend on several factors, such as soil type, climate, and irrigation practices. Water retainers are materials that can hold onto water in the soil and release it slowly over time to plants.

If you are considering using a water retainer product, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates, which will be based on the specific product’s properties and recommended usage. Additionally, you should take into account your soil and irrigation management practices to determine the appropriate amount of water retainer to apply.

In general, the recommended application rate of water retainer can range from 2268 to 9071 grams per acre, depending on the product and the desired effect. However, it is important to note that excessive use of water retainers can lead to waterlogging or reduced drainage in some soils, which can be detrimental to plant growth.

Rule of thumb: sandy soil will require more water retainer because it doesn’t have great water holding capacity. 

7) What is the recommended amount of water retainer to use on an acre of vegetables?

The recommended amount of water retainer to use on an acre of vegetables can vary depending on several factors, such as soil type, crop type, and the specific water management practices. 

If you are considering using a water retainer product, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates, which will be based on the specific product’s properties and recommended usage. When using Akili’s water retainer, stick to 100 grams for a smaller plant.

In general, the recommended application rate of water retainer can range from 2268 to 9071 grams per acre of vegetable growing land, depending on the product and the desired effect. 

8) How much water retainer should I use on an acre of trees?

The recommended amount of water retainer to use on an acre of trees also depends on  soil type, tree species, and the specific water management practices. When using Akili’s water retainer, we recommend using 500 grams for a single tree.

In general, the recommended application rate of water retainer can range from 2268 to 9071 grams per acre, depending on the product and the desired effect.

9) What are the benefits of using a Water Retainer?

Using a water retainer in the soil can provide several benefits, including:

  1. Improved water retention: One of the primary benefits of using a water retainer in soil is improved water retention. Water retainers can help the soil hold onto water, reducing the need for frequent irrigation and ensuring that water is available to plants during dry periods.Our water retainer can save up to 50% of water. 
  2. Increased crop yield: By improving water retention, water retainers can help increase crop yield. Plants that have consistent access to water tend to be healthier and produce more fruit or vegetables.
  3. Reduced water waste: Water retainers can help to reduce water waste by preventing water from evaporating or running off the soil surface. This can be especially important in areas where water is scarce or expensive.
  4. Improved soil quality: Water retainers can also help to improve soil quality by reducing erosion and improving soil structure. This can help to create a more stable and healthy environment for plants to grow.
  5. Environmental benefits: By reducing the need for frequent irrigation, water retainers can also help to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions associated with pumping water.
  6. Cost savings: Over time, using a water retainer in the soil can result in cost savings, as less water is required for irrigation and plants tend to be healthier, reducing the need for fertilizers and pesticides.

In summary, using a water retainer in the soil can provide a range of benefits, from improving water retention and crop yield to reducing water waste and improving soil quality.

Mixing of Biochar

Email

                             info@akiligroup.co.ke

Phone

                                 0704309577/0708066303

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