{"product_id":"water-storing-polymer-crystals-for-insects-and-plants-by-five-star-feeders-16-oz-small-1-mm","title":"Water Storing Polymer Crystals for Insects and Plants by Five-Star Feeders – 16 oz Small (1 mm)","description":"\u003cp\u003eDiscover Five-Star Feeders Water Storing Polymer Crystals, a dry, water-absorbing crystal blend designed to support both feeder insects and plant care. When hydrated, these crystals swell dramatically, expanding up to about 400 times their original size, growing from roughly 1 mm to 3–4 mm. For best results, use distilled water, as minerals in tap water can slightly slow expansion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn practice, the crystals create a safe, drown-free water source for crickets, roaches, dubias, and other feeder insects. They also offer a practical soil-moisture boost for potted plants and gardens, helping roots stay hydrated between waterings. The kit is designed with breeders, reptile keepers, and home gardeners in mind, delivering a simple, reusable solution for everyday care.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eHydrating the crystals: Add 1 oz of dry crystals to 1 gallon of water, then let sit overnight. In the morning, strain to reveal fully expanded crystals (about 400x original).\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eFor insects: Place the hydrated crystals in a shallow dish to provide a water source that reduces drowning risk.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eFor plants: Mix dry crystals into soil before watering to improve moisture retention. In pots, mix leaving about 1 inch of space at the top; in garden rows, use 7–8 teaspoons per 6-foot row and blend evenly.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNotes and tips: Crystals start at ~1 mm and expand to 3–4 mm when hydrated. Distilled water yields the best expansion; tap water can slightly reduce capacity due to minerals. To prepare quickly, soak 1 teaspoon of dry crystals in 4 cups of water overnight, then strain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy people choose this\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eUniform crystals screened for consistency and easy handling, free of dust.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eSafe, non-toxic, and reusable, suitable for insect breeders, reptile keepers, and home gardeners.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eTwo practical applications in one kit: supports insect hydration and helps soil retain moisture for plants.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"product-faq-snippet\"\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFAQ\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"faq-item\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"faq-q\"\u003eQ: How do I use the crystals to hydrate insects and plants?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"faq-a\"\u003eA: Soak 1 teaspoon in 4 cups of water overnight, then strain to reveal expanded crystals for use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"faq-item\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"faq-q\"\u003eQ: Are Five-Star Feeders water-storing crystals safe for insects and plants when used as directed?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"faq-a\"\u003eA: Yes, they are non-toxic and designed for safe use when following the recommended ratios and handling guidelines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e","brand":"Garden Canada","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45741433192634,"sku":"B09V25G1K6","price":60.88,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/3536\/8890\/files\/five-star-feeders-dry-crystals-ready-to-hydrate.jpg?v=1774816942","url":"https:\/\/gardencanada.ca\/products\/water-storing-polymer-crystals-for-insects-and-plants-by-five-star-feeders-16-oz-small-1-mm","provider":"Garden Canada","version":"1.0","type":"link"}