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Perlite is a light, porous volcanic material that makes your potting soil airy and well-draining. This natural mineral helps drain excess water and promotes better root development. Want to know exactly what perlite is? Check out our blog post "What is Perlite?" for more background information. Combine perlite with coir or vermiculite, for example, for a perfect mix, as found in our potting soil and accessories collection.
How to care for Perlite
Watering Perlite
Perlite itself isn't water-repellent, but it does help your potting soil retain and drain water. Mixing perlite into your potting soil prevents water from stagnating and causing root rot. The granules help drain excess moisture faster than potting soil alone. Combine perlite with hydroponic clay granules for additional drainage. See also our hydroponic clay granules and Leca.
Light requirements of Perlite
Perlite doesn't require any light of its own, as it's not a living organism. However, it's important that the plant you're using perlite for receives the right light conditions. A Monstera deliciosa or Dracaena marginata in your perlite mix will benefit from bright, indirect light. This keeps the potting soil sufficiently dry, and perlite maintains its optimal function. For plants in shade, you can combine perlite with peat moss to retain moisture longer; see Sphagnum Moss.
Common problems with Perlite
Yellow leaves
Yellow leaves on your plants often indicate soil that is too wet. Without perlite, water remains in the potting mix, depriving the roots of oxygen. Therefore, mix at least 10–20% perlite into your potting mix to improve drainage. You can also occasionally turn your pot upside down to allow excess water to drain.
Plant dripping
If drips continuously from the pot after watering, use less water or choose smaller waterings. Perlite accelerates drainage, allowing water to flow out of the pot more quickly. Divide your watering into two sessions to give the soil a chance to absorb moisture. Combine with hydroponic clay pebbles in the soil for a buffer, as shown in our Leca Hydroponic Clay Pebbles.
Plagues
Perlite itself doesn't attract pests, but overly wet soil can breed fungus gnats. Adding perlite improves aeration and helps the soil dry faster, reducing the chance of fungus gnats. Also, use sticky traps for fungus gnats as an additional barrier. For more tips, see our plant life support or sticky traps.
Roots emerge from the bottom of the pot
With intensive use of perlite, the potting soil can shrink faster, making the roots visible. Periodically top up the pot with fresh potting soil or use a slightly larger pot. This gives the roots more room to grow and prevents exposed roots. Check out our selection of flower pots for sale in Leuven.
Brown edges on the leaves
Brown edges can indicate fluctuating moisture levels or temporary dryness after watering. Perlite ensures even moisture levels, but water your plant regularly as needed. Maintain the humidity in the room with a plant mister or a humidifier. Also read our blog post "5 tips to increase humidity in your home."
Types of Perlite
- Finely sieved perlite for young cuttings
- Coarse perlite for better drainage
- Premium horticultural perlite with white granules
- Heat-treated perlite for sterile mix
- Perlite mixed with vermiculite as a substrate
- Blend of perlite with coconut bark and peat moss
- Activated perlite for hydroponics
With Perlite, you can transform any potting soil into an airy, well-draining substrate. Order today and add it to your cart or visit our store in Leuven. Also check out our other potting soil options, such as vermiculite 3l and hydro grains. Go directly to the Perlite product to perfect your plant mix.
