Perlite for potting mixes: drainage and aeration

What perlite contributes

Perlite is a light, porous volcanic material used to improve drainage and aeration in potting mixes. UNH Extension explains its role alongside other potting-mix ingredients.

Start with the plant and the complete mix

Consider the plant you are growing and the ingredients already in the mix. Container media need both air space and appropriate moisture retention; the balance varies with the plant. Illinois Extension describes how container mixes differ.

This guide does not prescribe a fixed perlite percentage. Follow a suitable plant-specific recipe and the supplier's product and handling instructions.

Preparing the mix

Combine the ingredients evenly and moisten the potting mix before planting. Oregon State University Extension includes moistening the mix in its container-planting guidance.

Compare related ingredients

Read the vermiculite guide and the guide to choosing growing-mix ingredients before selecting complementary inputs.

Shop perlite

View IronRoots Perlite for the current pack, price and availability, or browse all soil inputs.