Horticultural Perlite

Roots need air as much as water. Perlite is a mineral that is super-heated until it pops like popcorn, and those light, airy particles open up a growing mix so air reaches the roots and extra water drains away. Blend it into a potting mix and you will feel the difference when you lift the pot.

This is 100 percent horticultural grade perlite. It is inert, sterile and neutral in pH, so it does not change the chemistry of the mix. Use it as a potting mix aggregate, or in hydroponic media, whenever better aeration and drainage are the goal.

Highlights

• Super-heated mineral that pops like popcorn
• Increases aeration in the growing mix
• Helps reduce water holding in soil
• 100 percent horticultural grade perlite
• Inert, sterile and neutral pH

Why a mix needs perlite

Container plants most often struggle when the mix stays wet around the roots. Perlite holds air in the mix and lets water pass through, so the roots get both. Even in a garden bed, a handful worked into heavy soil helps it loosen and drain.

It suits container growers on a porch or patio, gardeners starting seeds or cuttings in a light mix, and anyone growing in hydroponic media. It is the simple ingredient that makes a homemade mix work, and it stores easily.

At a glance

How to use it

1. Dampen the perlite lightly before you mix it, to keep the dust down.
2. Mix it into the potting mix before you fill the pots, so it is spread through the root zone instead of sitting in one layer.
3. In a garden bed, work it into the top layer of heavy soil rather than piling it in one spot.
4. For hydroponic media, use it as the growing medium in your system.
5. Pour slowly and keep your face out of the dust when you open the bag.

Good to know

• Perlite can float to the top of a pot when you water heavily, so mix it in well and water gently.
• Keep the bag closed and dry between uses.
• Pair it with a potting mix and containers that have drainage holes for the best results.
• Stock it before planting season so the mix is ready when you are.

About ferti-lome

ferti-lome is a lawn and garden brand from Voluntary Purchasing Groups, Inc., a company based in Bonham, Texas. Its website carries the tagline Local Solutions for Local Problems.

Add it to your potting supplies before the next round of planting.