How much hydrogen peroxide, 35% should I mix with a gallon of water to disinfect my Hydro ton pellets prior to restarting my aeroponic system this year. I have also heard that isoproll alchohol can be used. Thanks ahead of time.
Since you're sterilizing hydroton rocks alone, not in conjunction with an actual root system, it's safe to go a little overboard just to be absolutely certain you're killing off any possible baddies, hiding out in all those nooks and crannies. I wouldn't use less than two or three teaspoons per gallon, a bit overkill, but again with no delicate root system to worry about you'll be fine, the peroxide will neutralize long before you go to use them (especially with a good rinse ). Have you considered baking them instead, or as well? I only suggest this because it sounds like you're possibly only working with a small quantity. Some of us couldn't fathom baking as much rock as we use, but in your case, if it could take only a gallon of water to cleanse them, you may be able to pull it off easily
Is this only for reusing the rocks? I am just starting up and the instructions said to just give them a good rinse.
Man I'd go all out. Shit loves to hide in those crevices. I soaked mine this time around in bleach water, strong bleach water overnight, then proceeded to boil them for about 2 hours, adding more water as all the water evaporated, and just kept on boiling them. I thought they were clean after the bleaching, but you wouldn't believe the residue that's left on the side of the 5gal pot in which they were boiled.
Thanks for the great info. I only have a small quantity of hydroton that fills twelve 5" net pots for my plants.Like you said, you never know whats gotten inside and I don't want to jerperdise a new crop.
Be careful using bleach man, even the tiniest traces can stunt growth or completely kill it. I'm just saying be careful, I know you said you boil it afterward. I've just had some bad experiences using bleach.