Perlite - Essential for Drainage, Aeration and Propagation

Sybotanica’s SYBASoil-Series Perlite is a lightweight, highly porous volcanic mineral that improves drainage, aeration, and root health in potting soil. It is a must-have for houseplants, propagation, and soilless growing. Unlike regular perlite, this version is carefully sifted to remove fine dust, making it safer to handle.

Why Use Perlite?

Perlite is a versatile soil amendment that enhances the structure of any soil mix by improving aeration, moisture control, and root access to oxygen.

Prevents root rot by ensuring excess water drains properly
Allows oxygen to reach plant roots for stronger, healthier growth
Retains some moisture while keeping the substrate light and airy
Ideal for propagation - supports rooting in both water and soil
Sterile, pH-neutral and long-lasting - does not decompose or compact over time
Lightweight and sustainable - mined as a mineral and expanded like popcorn

💡 Compared to vermiculite, perlite holds less water and creates a more breathable substrate — ideal for most houseplants except water-loving species like Alocasia, Calathea and Maranta.

🔹 Disadvantages? Standard perlite can be dusty and unsafe to inhale — but this perlite has been carefully sifted and pre-cleaned for safer handling.

How to Use Perlite

🔹 As a Soil Additive

Mix 10-30% perlite into your potting mix for better aeration and drainage.
Ideal for aroids, succulents, and epiphytic plants that prefer well-draining soil.

🔹 As a Rooting Medium for Cuttings

Use perlite alone or mixed with coco coir and worm castings to promote fast root development.

🔹 As a Soilless Hydroponic Medium

Fill a cup with perlite and add water up to 1/3 of the height. The water wicks up naturally, keeping roots hydrated.
Important: Add nutrients, as perlite does not contain any on its own.

🔹 For Seed Germination

Use a 1:1 mix of perlite and coco coir to improve germination rates and seedling growth.

💡 Pro Tip: To prevent dust when handling perlite, add 10% water to the bag, shake, and let sit for an hour before use.

Perlite vs. Vermiculite - Which One to Use?

Both perlite and vermiculite are lightweight, sterile, and inorganic, but they function differently:

✔ Perlite - Best for plants that need excellent drainage and aeration. Retains some moisture but allows excess water to escape.
✔ Vermiculite - Best for plants that require constant moisture. Holds more water and has a slightly lower pH.

For most houseplants, perlite is the better choice, but moisture-loving plants may prefer vermiculite.

What is Perlite?

Perlite is a naturally occurring volcanic mineral that is mined as a hard glass-like rock. When heated at high temperatures, it expands like popcorn, creating a lightweight, porous structure ideal for improving soil aeration and drainage.

💡 Unlike synthetic soil additives, perlite is completely natural, inert, and sustainable.