Quillaja Extract 20% Saponin (Wetting Agent/Spreader)
Quillaja extract powder, 20% saponin, used as a wetting agent and spreader. Its saponins lower the surface tension of water, so foliar sprays spread over the leaf and water soaks evenly into living soil and dry media.
At a glance
- Type: wetting agent and spreader (surfactant), quillaja extract powder
- Analysis: 20% saponin
- Use for: spreader in foliar sprays, drenches to wet dry spots in living soil, rewetting dry pots
- Rate: 1/8 to 1/2 teaspoon per 5 L of water, as a drench or foliar spray
What it is
Quillaja extract comes from the bark of the soap bark tree (Quillaja saponaria) of Chile, whose saponins have long been used as natural foaming and wetting agents. This is a less refined extract at 20% saponin, so it also carries sugars and polyphenols from the bark.
What it does
- A surfactant lowers the surface tension of water. Droplets that would bead up and roll off a waxy leaf spread out and cover it instead, so a foliar spray reaches more of the leaf.
- Dry peat and coir turn water repellent and water channels down the sides of the pot. A little quillaja in the water lets it sink in evenly, which is how growers use it to prevent dry spots in living soil.
- Some growers use a weak quillaja solution when flushing pots.
Analysis
How to use
- Soil drench or foliar spray: 1/8 to 1/2 teaspoon per 5 L of water.
- Larger batches: 1/8 to 1/2 cup per 250 L of water, as a drench or foliar spray.
- For a dry pot, water in rounds rather than one pour so the whole mix rewets.
Watch out
- Saponins are toxic to fish. Take care when using near streams or ponds.
- Do not exceed the rates. Strong surfactant solutions can mark leaves.
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Handling and storage
- Wear a mask to avoid inhaling particles and open in a well ventilated area.
- Wear gloves and eye protection, and wash hands after use.
- Once opened, keep sealed and dry.
- If ingested, or if the product comes into contact with eyes or skin irritation is present, rinse the area well and call the National Poisons Centre on 0800 POISON (0800 764 766).
Shipping and returns
We ship nationwide across New Zealand. Orders are usually dispatched within 1 to 2 business days and rural delivery can take longer. Unopened products can be returned within 30 days.
