Monk Botanicals
Monk Pon - Triple-Washed Semi Hydroponic Plant Substrate
Monk Pon - Triple-Washed Semi Hydroponic Plant Substrate
- Triple-washed pon mix with less dust and mess.
- Pumice, lava rock, and zeolite blend.
- Supports airflow, drainage, and balanced moisture.
Not sure how much you need? View size guide
Questions about rinsing, feeding, or reuse? Read the FAQs
What it is
Monk Pon is a triple-washed semi-hydro substrate made with pumice, lava rock, and zeolite. It is designed as a soil-free growing medium for semi-hydro and passive hydro setups.
Our biggest focus is cleanliness: the mix is thoroughly washed before packing, so it arrives cleaner and easier to use than typical dusty mineral blends.
Why plants like it
- Porous minerals support airflow around roots.
- Helps balance moisture while allowing excess water to drain.
- Zeolite helps hold and release nutrients over time.
- Works well with self-watering planters and semi-hydro setups.
How to use
- Remove as much old soil as possible from your plant's roots.
- Add Monk Pon to your planter and position roots in the substrate.
- Water through or fill your reservoir, depending on your setup.
- Monitor your plant as it adjusts to semi-hydro growing.
Need more detail? View the full setup guide.
Ingredients
Pumice, lava rock, and zeolite.
Particle size is approximately 6-9 mm. Natural color and size variation may occur.
Size guide
Choose 1 L for small pots, top-offs, or trying pon. Choose 3 L for multiple small plants or larger repots.
| Size | Best For |
|---|---|
| 1 L | Trying pon, topping off plants, or repotting 1-2 small plants. |
| 3 L | Multiple small plants, medium repots, or keeping extra substrate on hand. |
Shipping & returns
Shipping: In-stock orders usually ship within 1-2 business days. US Standard shipping is $4.99 (3-4 business days in transit); Express is $15 (1-2 business days in transit). Free Economy shipping is available on qualifying US orders of $75 or more (5-8 business days in transit). See our shipping policy for details and preorder information.
Returns: We accept returns on unused items within 30 days of delivery. Items must be in original condition and packaging.
Monk Pon FAQs
Does Monk Pon need rinsing?
Monk Pon is triple-washed before packaging, so most of the prep is already done. Before planting, give it one quick rinse in a draining inner pot or sieve to remove any fine dust or debris created during shipping. Allow the rinse water to drain away before filling your reservoir.
Does Monk Pon contain fertilizer? How should I feed my plants?
Monk Pon is a completely inorganic blend of pumice, lava rock, and zeolite, with no added fertilizer—giving you control over your plant’s feeding routine.
Use a complete fertilizer formulated for hydroponic growing, following its dilution and feeding instructions for your plant and setup. For regular feeding, use the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance strength rather than guessing a dose. Hydroponic plants need nutrients supplied through their nutrient solution.
How much Monk Pon do I need for my planter?
Use enough Monk Pon to surround the roots and hold your plant securely upright. Gently settle the granules around the roots without tightly packing them, and avoid burying the plant’s crown or stem deeper than its appropriate planting level.
The amount depends on the inner planting pot’s volume and the size of the root system. For self-watering planters, measure the planting compartment—not the outer water reservoir. View the size guide.
Which self-watering systems does Monk Pon work with?
Monk Pon is suitable for Monk self-watering planters and other setups designed for mineral substrates, including many wick-fed and reservoir-based semi-hydro systems.
Compatibility depends on the planter’s design: the wick or substrate must provide a reliable path for moisture to reach the roots. Follow your planter’s instructions for substrate compatibility and water level; some self-watering pots are designed specifically for soil-based mixes.
When might another substrate be a better choice?
Another substrate may suit you better if you prefer a traditional potting mix with fertilizer already included, your planter requires a specific growing medium, or you’re starting tiny seeds that need a finer medium.
Monk Pon is a good fit for growers who want a mineral substrate and control over their nutrient routine. The best choice depends on the plant, watering system, and care preferences.
Can I reuse Monk Pon?
Yes. Its durable mineral ingredients make Monk Pon reusable with proper cleaning. Remove old roots and debris, rinse thoroughly, and sanitize appropriately before using it for another plant. Reusing growing media requires attention to cleanliness to avoid carrying over pests or pathogens.
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Great product and would recommend.
Love this product, and @ a great amount!
Love this product. This was given as a gift awhile and ended up using this product as I started getting houseplants.
Love this pon! It’s pre washed so it’s ready out of the bag. Almost all my plants are in this substrate!
Fast shipping and packed well. Also came in with a fertilizer.