Perlite – Lighten Up Your Mix!

Need to boost drainage and aeration in your plant mix? Perlite is your go-to! Perfect for aroids, succulents, and any plant that hates soggy roots, this chunky, lightweight volcanic rock is a must-have in your plant care toolkit.

What is Perlite?

Perlite is a naturally occurring volcanic glass that’s heated until it expands into a lightweight, white, porous material – kind of like popcorn, but for plants! Our coarse grade variety features larger particles than standard perlite, making it perfect for improving drainage and structure in chunky, airy substrates like Pon, aroid mixes, or semi-hydro blends.

How to Use It

• Mix into substrate: Combine with Pon, coco coir, bark, or soil to boost drainage.

• Propagate with it: Use on its own or with moss to root cuttings in a sterile, well-aerated environment.

• Improve airflow: Great for heavy mixes that tend to compact over time.

• Perfect pairing: Works beautifully with LECA, orchid bark, and coco chips in custom aroid blends.

Benefits of Perlite

• Improves Drainage: Prevents waterlogging and root rot in moisture-sensitive plants.

• Boosts Aeration: Roots love oxygen – perlite helps them breathe.

• Lightens Heavy Mixes: Reduces compaction and makes your potting mix easier to handle.

• Inert and pH Neutral: Won’t affect nutrient levels or chemical balance.

• Sterile Medium: Free from pests, pathogens, and nasties – ideal for propagation and seed-starting.

Tips & Tricks

• Mix 10–40% perlite into your substrate, depending on how airy you want it.

• Great for Alocasia, Anthurium, and Philodendron – especially those grown in cabinets or semi-hydro setups.

• Use a mesh sieve to separate finer dust if you're making a chunkier mix.

• Want maximum airflow? Combine perlite with bark and pumice for an ultra-chunky blend.

Safety Precautions

• Dust Warning: Perlite can be dusty! Always wear a dust mask or work outdoors when handling dry perlite.

• Rinse Before Use: A quick rinse helps reduce airborne particles and makes it easier to mix.

• Keep away from pets and small children – while non-toxic, it's not a snack!

Whether you're crafting the perfect chunky aroid mix or looking for a propagation-friendly medium, Coarse Grade Perlite is a plant shelf essential. Lighten things up and let those roots thrive!