Landscaping

Expanded Shale improves grass growth

Expanded Shale is a porous and extremely lightweight rock that is stable (like lava rock) and not crumbly (like vermiculite). It can hold water, nutrients and has a constant supply of air which keeps plants from drowning in clay soils or drying in sandy soils; a common problem in the Okanagan.  It is generally helpful for annual garden beds and the best thing is you only need to buy it one time because it remains in the soil and keeps working. 

The main differences between lava rock and Expanded Shale are:

• Lava rock is irregular in shape and therefore provides uneven aeration and wetting.  Expanded Shale is uniform in size.
• Lava rocks may contain traces of heavy metals, which may cause nutrient deficiencies and pH swings. Expanded Shale is chemically inert and has a neutral pH.  
• Expanded Shale is lighter than lava rock.
• Both are reusable, but expanded shale is much easier to clean. Its surface is smoother than lava rock and therefore is easier to remove roots and bacteria. 

Expanded Shale is also used as backfill for retaining walls.  Because it's lightweight and free-draining, it prevents water from leaking through and staining the retaining wall.

For more information on the benefits of Expanded Shale, please click here (pdf).

Expanded Shale is available in 28lb bags at Swan Lake Nurseryland, Vernon BC.  2000lb super sacks of Expanded Shale are available for larger applications.If you are a landscape contractor or lawn specialist, please contact us for pricing.