Horticultural perlite is a lightweight, expanded mineral used to increase air space and drainage in potting mixes and other growing media. It does not replace fertilizer; its role is physical structure rather than supplying plant nutrients.
Using perlite in a growing mix
- Add perlite to container mixes when a lighter texture or more drainage is appropriate for the crop and irrigation plan.
- Blend it evenly with the other ingredients instead of placing it only at the bottom of a container.
- Choose the package size that matches your project, from small containers to larger batches of custom mix.
- Review the product label for handling directions and any product-specific organic-use listing.
The right proportion depends on the base mix, container, crop, climate, and watering frequency. A mix can dry more quickly as drainage and air space increase, so monitor moisture at root depth after changing the recipe. Compare package volume and any grade information on each product page before ordering perlite for gardening, seed starting, or potting-soil blends.
