Perlite, pumice
Perlite, pumice
I've got a quick question, I don't understand the difference between using perlite and pumice. Can perlite be used instead of pumice in a soil mix? Which properties of the soil are changed when perlite is used instead of pumice?
Re: Perlite, pumice
Main problem is perlite tends to float if you water by dipping the pots, or water into the top of the pots.
"Pumice vs perlite:
Some growers swear by perlite to lighten soils and enhance aeration. For years it was the industry standard. It’s the white bits in potting mixes.
According to Austin Petelski of General Pumice, perlite is inert and inorganic, and is created by heating pumice to the point it pops like popcorn.
My own experience is perlite floats to the surface of pots, and in the garden makes tidal drifts of white after watering. Nothing stands out in a garden more than white. Unlike perlite, pumice stays put and doesn’t call too much attention to itself."
http://debraleebaldwin.com/soil-mix-for ... important/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
"Pumice vs perlite:
Some growers swear by perlite to lighten soils and enhance aeration. For years it was the industry standard. It’s the white bits in potting mixes.
According to Austin Petelski of General Pumice, perlite is inert and inorganic, and is created by heating pumice to the point it pops like popcorn.
My own experience is perlite floats to the surface of pots, and in the garden makes tidal drifts of white after watering. Nothing stands out in a garden more than white. Unlike perlite, pumice stays put and doesn’t call too much attention to itself."
http://debraleebaldwin.com/soil-mix-for ... important/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Re: Perlite, pumice
But is there any difference in cactus growth (or general plant growth) if perlite floats to top? Is the drainage still good or would root rot and similiar problems occur? Also, wouldn't it float back down as time goes?
- greenknight
- Posts: 4819
- Joined: Tue Apr 30, 2013 4:18 am
- Location: SW Washington State zone 8b
Re: Perlite, pumice
The perlite that's buried stays put, only the stuff in the surface layer floats around. Doesn't hurt the plants. If you cover the surface with a gravel mulch, that will prevent the problem. Perlite works well enough otherwise, and is available many places you can't easily obtain pumice.
Spence
Re: Perlite, pumice
Yeah that's why I was asking. Where I am there's a shop that sells perlite, but I'd have to get pumice through sites like e-bay and pay a lot for shipping. Thanks for the answers
Re: Perlite, pumice
There is a difference in weight of course, perlite is very light, being puffed up pumice, but I have used both without any problems.
- greenknight
- Posts: 4819
- Joined: Tue Apr 30, 2013 4:18 am
- Location: SW Washington State zone 8b
Re: Perlite, pumice
Yes, you might want to add some gravel for weight to make the pots more stable.
Spence
- Steve Johnson
- Posts: 4528
- Joined: Thu Nov 03, 2011 4:44 am
- Location: Los Angeles, CA (Zone 10b)
Re: Perlite, pumice
You can also use gravel as a top dressing (I've been doing this for a lot of years). A good thick layer of it will keep the "floaters" down.
If you just want photos without all the blather, please visit my Flickr gallery.
My location: Los Angeles, CA (Zone 10b)
My location: Los Angeles, CA (Zone 10b)
Re: Perlite, pumice
Yes, I've noticed that it's very light. I was surprised by it. My mother always said it has the properties of styrofoam...
Thanks for all the help!
Thanks for all the help!