Application rates vary due to the type of soil, region and type of plant.  
Generally, clay soils require less crystals' granules and sandy soils require more.  
Arid regions and area subject to heat and drought require more crystals' granules.  

Wet, cool regions require less polymer crystals.
However polymer crystals in these regions are very beneficial for planting on slopes.  
All rates are an approximation and with experience, planters will determine the rates for their individual needs and conditions.  

When applying dry water absorbing granules, the main thing to remember is that - more isn't always better.  
The granules should be worked into the ground to provide equal distribution.  

Some crystals' users have been known to plant annuals on top of an ample amount of granules without working it into the soil, and after the first rain,
find the plants out of the ground and a large lump of Jell-O like substance (hydrated crystals' gel) in it's place.  

If hydrated crystal gel is allowed to remain above the ground, sunlight will hasten the breakdown to its primary elements of  carbon dioxide, ammonia, and water, becoming smaller and smaller with each wet to dry cycle.

Fertilizing
When adding plant food, follow the manufactures instructions but always use in greatly reduced amounts.  
Do not add plant food directly onto the gel polymer crystals without first diluting the plant food with distilled water.
Do not use plant food sticks.

Which Plants Are Suitable?
Plants which are less sensitive, many green plants, the majority of plants which are suitable for hydroponics, such as bamboo, palms,
philodendrons, spider plants and etc. 
We recommend not using cactus, succulents or orchids.

6 teaspoons of dry granules =~ 1 ounce of dry granules.   1/4 cup of dry granules  =~ 2 oz. of dry granules.

1 teaspoon (medium or large) dry granules will absorb approximately 1 cup water.

1 ounce of dry granules will make a full gallon (or slightly more) of WET crystal Gel when added to a gallon of water.