Red Lava (Scoria) The Foundation of Strength and Drainage Optimize your bonsais root health with Horticultural Red Lava. This porous volcanic rock provides superior aeration and drainage, preventing root rot and soil compaction. The permanent, 100% natural substrate for professional bonsai soil mixes. Why Choose Red Lava? Macro & Micro-Pores: The volcanic structure traps air and water at a microscopic level, ensuring roots stay hydrated without being "wet." Structural Integrity: Unlike organic mulch, Red Lava never decomposes, maintaining consistent soil structure for years. This means you can go longer between repotting sessions. Anchorage: The rough, jagged edges of the lava rock provide excellent grip for fine feeder roots to latch onto, creating a stable root ball. Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC): It helps retain and slowly release essential nutrients from your fertilizers to the tree. How to use Red Lava: Bonsai Mixes: For the ultimate "Conifer Mix," combine Red Lava with Akadama and Kiryuzuna in a 1:1:1 ratio. The lava provides the drainage, while the akadama holds the nutrients. Succulent and Cactus Mix:Use with Akadama or Kanuma with some Hyuga for a gritty, well-draining soil mix. Tropicals or Ficus Mix: 2:1:1 Akadama, Red Lava, Hyuga Pumice Use as a top dressing.