Perlite Lightens Compost

Perlite is a neutral non-toxic volcanic rock that has been heated to high temperatures to produce a lightweight porous material with  a high surface area.
It is used when sowing seeds, rooting cuttings or potting on to improve aeration, moisture retention and drainage.
Perlite is usually graded to produce particles up to quarter of an inch diameter.
Perlite is stable and long lasting.
100 litres of J Arthur Bowers perlite can be ordered from Amazon for less than £20.

Tips for Using Perlite

• Mix perlite with an equal part of compost for leaf or soft stemmed cuttings.
• For rooting harder cuttings increase the proportion of perlite.
• Perlite optimises the proportion of air and water in a compost and makes water logging almost impossible.
• Roots are not damaged when transplanting from a perlite mix.
• Water perlite before using to avoid dust