Perlite is a growing medium with thousands of tiny air pockets that give plants an aeration boost. It is a naturally occurring mineral formed when obsidian is heated to extreme temperatures and then cooled very quickly. The rapid cooling forces out moisture and leaves a porous surface, giving a very light substrate with great aeration. That makes it a good choice for both hydroponic and soil-based growing.
Main features of perlite
Easy to use and mess free
Natural air pockets provide high root aeration
Completely reusable
Neutral pH
Naturally occurring and inert
Using perlite in hydroponics
Perlite works well for plants that need a lot of oxygen and good drainage. It is excellent for propagating cuttings, because the high aeration lets roots develop without sitting in water and rotting. We have had success with perlite growing indoor plants, herbs and leafy greens. Note that perlite floats, so keep this in mind if you are designing your own system.
Using perlite with soil
Perlite can be mixed with vermiculite, peat moss, coco coir and regular soil to increase aeration and drainage. Plants that like dry conditions, such as cacti, sago palms and snake plants, thrive with the drainage perlite offers. It is a versatile medium, so you can experiment with ratios to suit your plants.
