Looking For MR TURFACE ???

Lesley

In preparing for spring planting, I've been reading about soil components on this site. A number of threads talk about Turface as a cheaper substitute for Fired Clay (Akadama). I've been to Orchard Supply and a rockery in my area and can't find anything like it. Where do I get this stuff ! ? ! ? I live in the San Francisco Bay Area. I appreciate the help!

PS I'll take a source for Akadama too, if no knows where to get Turface. I have about 20 trees - 5 gallon size to re-plant.

Thanks

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Ladybug

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Jay

Hi there, below is the web site for Turface. I use the MVP version of turface. Try contacting them and see if there is a source near you. It is used for Baseball infields. If you have a ball field by you... professional, semi pro, College or high school, contact the grounds keeper. He probably uses turface or another product which is the same,
http://www.turface.com/

good luck
J

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A Bonsai student living with his trees at N 44.37 W 77.49...
Think before you act... then think again... no good comes from rushing

Lesley

Jay,

Thank You! Thank You!
I used the Turface web address and a nice custumer service rep referred me to a distributer in my area (Campbell Ca.) that will sell me a 50lb bag of Turface MVP for $8. I bought Akadama from a club member and as I remember this is way cheaper and a lot more product. I hope it works as well. The distributer, also very nice, is Sierra Pacific Turf Supply, 1-800-827-8873, and they ship.

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Ladybug

Jay

Lesley, good for you!!!!

I pay $10.00 or so at the place I get it from. I do sift it. I get to use about 60-70% as bonsai soil, still a pretty good deal!

Let us know how it goes

J

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A Bonsai student living with his trees at N 44.37 W 77.49...
Think before you act... then think again... no good comes from rushing

bonsaial1

Lasley, You should be able to get akadama from Shibui Bonsai. Try this no. 408-248-5743 They are located in San Jose, and have a showroom by appointment only.

BTW, turface is in no way a substitute for akadama. The turface is highfired to almost stoneware, whereas the akadama, even the hard fired will crush in your fingers with little pressure when wet. There is no sub. for the real thing. The akadama has magical properties that are retained thru the firing process to make it less prone to break down when wet.

Al

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I been kidding the last seven years.
no.... really!

Lesley

Al,

Thanks for the reply-I'll give them a ring! I've been reading you're recent posts and your work (artistic vision) on trees and stands is outstanding. I would try to aspire to your expertise, but I know I'll never get there. If you have a shohin class or show, please let us know- I'd drive down to be there in a heartbeat for the opportunity to learn from you.

Lesley

PS I did buy Turface and will probably try it, since I have it, for a test.

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Ladybug