Not sure if those will make much differance, I've seen them used for hydro setups but not for soil grows. I dont see anything wrong with it, But I believe thats why theres pearlite (white pellets) in the soil to begin with as far as moisture retention goes.

As far as disturbing the soil, I dont think you have to worry about that unless your watering with a hose..

Anyone else care to comment?
DojaDave Reviewed by DojaDave on . plant trouble the leaves on the bottom are becoming yeallow and some areas are brown too, and that yeallowing goes to the top. I ferted it with 2/3 solution a few days ago, all the leaves became droopy too. so is it overwatering or underferting or overferting ? the plant is 1+ month old. oh yes the thing became even worse then I topped it, but I don't think that this is the problem. Rating: 5