Question 1

Is it safe to use with insects?

Accepted Answer

I am an industrial chemist (retired) and worked at a complex with a plant making 350,000 pounds of acrylamide (monomer) a day.  While acrylamide itself is quite toxic and carcinogenic. polyacrylamide is utterly harmless.  Polyacrylamide is, as the name suggests, a polymer of acrylamide.  The polymerization reaction destroys the toxicity and carcinogenicity of the molecule.  As long as all of the monomer is removed, there are no worries.  If you are a bit OCD, you can put the "crystals" in a large excess of water, let it sit for a few hours, and pour off the water.

Question 2

can it be used in outdoor pots that already have plants in them

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can use this in pots with plants in them.  Make several holes in the soil (with a stick or pencil) evenly spaced around the plant (avoiding the root area) and incorporate Miracle-Gro Water Storing Crystals evenly into the holes. Cover the holes with soil and water thoroughly to activate the water storing properties.

Question 3

I want to add this product to all my landscaping during our CA drought.  Can I sprinkle it over all my plants or do I have to dig up my entire garden?

Accepted Answer

No you can't sprinkle it on the ground.  But you don't have to dig up your garden either.  What you can do is dig some holes or area around each plant, getting as close as you can without damaging the plant roots.  I usually do this for an established garden areas.  I make the holes (3 for each plant) or digging areas close to plants as I can then put about 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. Then replace the dirt. After I've finished I water a bit to soak the dirt back into place.If you want to see what the Crystals look like when wet. Put about 1/4 tsp in a 2c measuring cup add about 1/2 of water.  They get huge!  Then you can just put this in the ground or planter with a plant.Hope this helps

Question 4

Does anyone know how long this stuff lasts in the soil? One season, 5 seasons?

Accepted Answer

According to literature it gradually deteriorates over a 2 to 3 year period turning into a harmless soil additive with a few nutrients.

ASIN	B0042YYVYG
Best Sellers Rank	#3,046 in Patio, Lawn & Garden ( See Top 100 in Patio, Lawn & Garden ) #130 in Garden Fertilizers
Brand Name	Miracle-Gro
Coverage	Medium
Customer Reviews	4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars (9,735)
Global Trade Identification Number	00073561008310, 00077344770425
Included Components	Fertilizer
Item Form	Powder
Item Type Name	Water Crystals
Item Weight	12 Ounces
Liquid Volume	12 Liters
Manufacturer	Scotts
Mixing Ratio	1:0.9375
Model Number	1008311
Number of Items	1
Part Number	1008311
Specific Uses For Product	Potting
Target Species	protect them from heat and drought
UPC	077344770425 073561008310 700761188169
Unit Count	12.0 Ounce
Warranty Description	Miracle-Gro No-Quibble Guarantee

Miracle-Gro Water Storing Crystals - Soil Moisture Retention Crystals for Indoor and Outdoor Plants - 12 oz.

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