If you’re looking for an effective addition to your soil or compost that will help to improve drainage and water retention, our range of perlite options could have just the solution for you.

What is perlite? 

White in colour, perlite has a spongy, polystyrene look and feel. However, it is, in fact, a naturally occurring volcanic rock that’s been heated at extremely high temperatures. This heating process causes the perlite to double in size and take on a porous property. 

This is what makes it an excellent addition to compost or soil, as it boasts exceptional water absorption in its expanded form. In turn, perlite helps to regulate soil moisture for growing seeds, cuttings and established plants either directly in the ground or in pots.

That’s not all, though. Containing high amounts of silica, perlite also works to stimulate root growth and soil aeration.

Perlite applications

When it comes to using perlite, you’ll find it’s pretty versatile - giving you a variety of ways to use it in your gardening ventures.

At FertileFibre, you can buy perlite in 35-litre, 50-litre and 100-litre bags, depending on the size of your planting project. You’ll also find perlite for sale in fine and medium grade options, helping you find the perfect balance between water retention and absorption within your soil. 

Here are some practical ways perlite can be used in your garden:

• Drainage: plants like succulents and cacti, which are used to living in dry soil, can benefit from a perlite blend as it will introduce an effective drainage system. Introducing air into the compost, perlite works to help water pass through the soil, preventing roots from becoming oversaturated
• Cuttings: adding a 50:50 mix of perlite to fine potting compost for use with cuttings can help to retain moisture and promote quick root growth. Perlite can also be used on its own to start off cuttings. Simply moisten fine perlite and add it to a polythene bag, add the cutting and seal the top around the base of the stem
• Sowing: mixed into seed compost, perlite helps to retain moisture and aerate the soil - allowing delicate seedling roots to flourish without becoming too damp
  

Check out our quick and easy video tutorials for more tips on planting seeds, cuttings and potting up.

Buy premium perlite online now, with UK-wide delivery.