[BryophyteOPhile]

Having taken months to acquire all I need for this first build of plants only, I am exceedingly frustrated because I cannot find any light rock in all of Canada. Apparently, despite giving to three reptile expos, writing to two mining companies and many aquarium outlets, pumice is not available. So I am thinking of using black lava rock. Of course, it's not available either in 3" -5" sizes BUT, I can source Fire Pit rock which is the right size and is so very cheap and available everywhere? I understand some lava rock depending on how it's formed, can change pH. Any idea of Fire Pit rock is the correct lava rock to use? Would vinegar be a good test to check?

If you happen to live in Canada and know a source of pumice, please let me know. I prefer not to pay $10 a rock please as I need a lot of it.

If that rock is not ok, I have a ton of limestone rock available to me. How much will it impact tropical jungle plants and water pH?

Thank you.

 

[IShouldGetSomeSleep]

I've understood both red and black lava rock to be pH neutral. You can of course check for significant alkalinity using a acid like vinegar. I'm pretty sure this Firepit rock should be inert.

 

[Harpspiel]

Having taken months to acquire all I need for this first build of plants only, I am exceedingly frustrated because I cannot find any light rock in all of Canada. Apparently, despite giving to three reptile expos, writing to two mining companies and many aquarium outlets, pumice is not available. So I am thinking of using black lava rock. Of course, it's not available either in 3" -5" sizes BUT, I can source Fire Pit rock which is the right size and is so very cheap and available everywhere? I understand some lava rock depending on how it's formed, can change pH. Any idea of Fire Pit rock is the correct lava rock to use? Would vinegar be a good test to check?

I’ve used firepit lava rock as my drainage layer before, particularly in a very successful jewel orchid build. But 3-5 inches is way too large for drainage, are you intending to use this for hardscape?

 

[Louis]

SOME lava rock sold for firepits is safe but some is treated with chemicals and absolutely isn't. Personally I wouldn't risk it.
You can buy safe lava rock in Canada HERE and they say "We sell smaller accents (<3" pieces) which are more suitable for the needs of ant-keepers, but can provide larger pieces on demand."
THESE GUYS are also in Canada and say "Most stones range from 6 cm - 25cm and are chosen randomly for what we think will work well together. But if you would like smaller, bigger, rounder, sharper or different colours, just request when you check out."
Limestone would have a significant effect on Ph.

 

[BryophyteOPhile]

SOME lava rock sold for firepits is safe but some is treated with chemicals and absolutely isn't. Personally I wouldn't risk it.
You can buy safe lava rock in Canada HERE and they say "We sell smaller accents (<3" pieces) which are more suitable for the needs of ant-keepers, but can provide larger pieces on demand."
THESE GUYS are also in Canada and say "Most stones range from 6 cm - 25cm and are chosen randomly for what we think will work well together. But if you would like smaller, bigger, rounder, sharper or different colours, just request when you check out."
Limestone would have a significant effect on Ph.

Thank you for the link and head's up.

 

[Carleefrogger]

You should be able to find Pumice at Garden Centres, especially in the Orchid section.

 

[BryophyteOPhile]

I’ve used firepit lava rock as my drainage layer before, particularly in a very successful jewel orchid build. But 3-5 inches is way too large for drainage, are you intending to use this for hardscape?

Yes. I want to silicon the rock up the walls to support epiphytes.

 

[BryophyteOPhile]

You should be able to find Pumice at Garden Centres, especially in the Orchid section.

I am looking for large rocks for landscaping. I can find gravel but, that is not what I intend the pumice for. It's been months and I still can't find any anywhere in Canada. I have even written to 3 NA mines.