Perlite for plants: what and why

What perlite is

Perlite is a mineral of natural volcanic origin. When heated to high temperatures it expands several times over and becomes lightweight, porous white granules.

Main properties

• Very lightweight — does not weigh down the medium
• Neutral pH (~7) — safe for all plants
• Sterile and inert — creates no environment for diseases
• Does not rot or decompose — retains properties for a long time

Benefits for plants

Perlite improves aeration and drainage in the root zone, helps avoid root rot from excess water and maintains a more stable moisture balance. As a result, the root system grows stronger and plants are healthier.

Perlite is used in substrates, hydroponics, germination, lawn establishment and floriculture.