They are made of starch or rubber. These water absorbing products are crystals when dry but turn into a jell when moist and release their moisture gradually. Two teaspoons of crystals can absorb a quart of water. This makes the swollen jell balls very slick when they are fully engorged with water and can result in an arena full of frozen balls in cold climates. Exposure to sunlight results in degradation.
Experts advise to start application conservatively and increase until desired results are obtained.
Usually the polymers are added to the soil at a starting rate of 5-10 pounds per 1000 square feet. Polymers are also rendered useless by most types of hard water and all salts. It pays to thoroughly evaluate your arena footing before designing a plan for its enhancement and maintenance. Each climate, type of soil, level of management, and type of performance event will have different footing requirements. Please read our Privacy Policy .