Root Rocks – NXT GEN 1L

$4.00 inc. GST

The evolution your plants have been waiting for.

As your plants mature, their root systems demand more air, more structure and a more dynamic environment. Root Rocks Next Gen is engineered for teen plants and beyond — the phase where roots shift from delicate and cosy to exploratory, strong, and hungry for space.

Built on our popular Root Rocks base mix, Next Gen increases aeration, boosts drainage and reduces warmth-holding materials so older plants stay balanced, stable and ready for their next growth surge.

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Full product description

Root Rocks Next Gen – Advanced Mineral Substrate

Airy, clean, and engineered for stronger, more mature root growth.

Root Rocks Next Gen delivers the ideal air-to-water ratio, making it perfect for a wide variety of plants — from Alocasia and Anthuriums, to Hoyas Bonsai, Cacti and Succulents. This upgraded blend supports developing root systems with excellent airflow and superior drainage.


Key Benefits

  • Allows more frequent watering than traditional soil

  • Reduces day-to-day plant-care time

  • Minimises pest issues

  • Encourages faster, stronger growth

  • Significantly lowers the risk of root rot


What Root Rocks Next Gen Is Made Of

Root Rocks Next Gen is made from premium, stone-like mineral granules that work as a complete soil alternative. The blend includes:

  • Pumice – boosts aeration and drainage

  • Zeolites – volcanic minerals that detoxify and stabilise pH

  • Aqua Scaper’s Soil – delivers slow-release nutrients

  • Lava rock – enhances structure and long-term stability

  • Silica & Quartz Variants – improve airflow, stability, and root resilience

  • Beneficial Microbes – enhance nutrient availability and root health

This free-draining, breathable structure is ideal for plants that dislike compact soil — especially Aroids in particular Alocasias and semi-hydro plants also thrive in this mineral-rich environment.


The Power of Zeolites

Zeolites are a standout ingredient in this blend. These volcanic minerals naturally bind harmful metals such as lead and nickel, helping keep the root zone clean. They retain moisture without causing waterlogging and support stable pH for long-term plant health.


Pumice

Pumice is one of the most valuable components in Root Rocks Next Gen. This lightweight volcanic stone is filled with natural pores that dramatically increase airflow around the roots. Its structure prevents compaction, keeps the mix open, and supports consistent oxygen exchange — all essential for strong, healthy root development. Pumice also absorbs just the right amount of moisture, helping maintain balance without creating soggy patches. For plants that thrive in breathable, fast-draining environments, pumice is a foundational element.


Aqua Scaper’s Soil

Aqua Scaper’s Soil adds a gentle, reliable nutritional boost to the mix. Originally designed for aquatic plants, this high-quality substrate releases nutrients slowly over time, supporting steady, controlled growth. It enriches the mineral blend just enough to form a healthy baseline for roots transitioning out of organic soil. This allows plants to adapt smoothly while maintaining vibrant foliage, stronger stems and resilient root development with minimal effort.


Lava Rock

Lava rock brings long-term strength and structure to Root Rocks Next Gen. Formed from cooled volcanic lava, its rugged, porous texture offers natural anchoring points for roots while maintaining excellent drainage and airflow. It provides exceptional durability, resisting breakdown far better than organic materials. Lava rock also supports beneficial microbes by giving them ample surface area to colonise. Its stability keeps the entire mix light, open and structurally sound — ideal for maturing plants with expanding root systems.


Silica & Quartz Variants

The blend of silica and quartz variants adds strength, purity and long-term stability to Root Rocks Next Gen. These hard, naturally inert minerals help keep the mix free-draining while preventing compaction over time. Quartz pieces create micro-channels that improve airflow around the root zone, while silica contributes to stronger root development and overall plant resilience. This duo also supports cleaner hydration cycles, as neither mineral breaks down or alters water chemistry — ensuring a consistent, reliable environment for maturing plants.


Beneficial Microbes

Root Rocks Next Gen also contains a carefully selected blend of beneficial microbes that work quietly behind the scenes to boost plant health. These microbes help break nutrients into plant-available forms, improve root efficiency and strengthen natural defences. They contribute to a cleaner, more balanced root zone while enhancing nutrient uptake and overall resilience — making Root Rocks Next Gen even more effective than mineral ingredients alone.


Fertilising With Root Rocks Next Gen

While Aqua Scaper’s Soil provides some slow-release nutrients, ongoing fertilising is still essential.

We recommend GT Foliage Focus with a “little and often” routine to maintain steady, healthy growth.


How to Use Root Rocks Next Gen

1. 25% Method – Drainage Boost

Add a layer at the bottom of pots to improve drainage — especially helpful for decorative planters with limited holes.

2. 50% Method – Pest Barrier

Use as a top or mid-layer to discourage fungus gnats and increase airflow. Ideal for growers transitioning from soil to semi-hydro.

3. 100% Method – Full Mineral Growing

Remove all organic matter and grow entirely in Root Rocks Next Gen.
We suggest using a clear glass vase without drainage, with a layer of LECA at the bottom to easily monitor water levels.


Versatile and Easy to Use

Root Rocks Next Gen can also be mixed into traditional potting mixes to make them lighter, more breathable and better draining. It's suitable for beginners, hobbyists and serious collectors.


Why Plant Lovers Choose Next Gen

Root Rocks Next Gen is designed to be the substrate collectors and influencers rave about. Its premium mineral composition maintains structure long-term, reduces disease risks and provides consistently healthy conditions for root development.


Long-Lasting & Sustainable

Unlike organic soils that break down and compact, Root Rocks Next Gen stays structurally stable for years — reducing waste, repotting frequency and overall maintenance.