Perlite
Perlite is an expanded, volcanic stone, often from Greece. The raw material is heated up to 950-990oC by which it is expanded (like popcorn). The quality of perlite depends on the raw material (the volcanic stone) and the way of expansion (temperature, screening etc.).
Perlite is often used in potting soil because of its special characteristics: it is light, fine but same time very porous and therefore you can add air into fine (seedling)mixes. Perlite has a water adsorption of about 2,5 (its own weight).
It can be used as a pure substrate but also to be mixed in potting soils. Now that the demand for peat free mixes is growing it can be an interesting substitute although the energy needed to produce is making perlite a rather expensive material.
This is just a brief note.
If you want to know more about the origin, the fabrication, the use, the advantages and disadvantages of perlite for you: don’t hesitate to write us a mail at info@substrate-consulting.nl
