SunPerl Perlite is a cost effective growing medium which increases aeration and drainage to develop healthy root growth. Root aeration is improved with the addition of horticultural grade perlite due to the increase in air-filled porosity of the growing medium. Reduces the likelihood of waterlogging in a growing medium due to its ability to absorb water and improve drainage. Its larger particle size reduces the effect of compaction in a medium which increases the ability for strong root growth. Perlite is sterile and inert and can be re-used once it has been sterilized.

What is perlite?
Perlite is a type of volcanic rock formed when obsidian glass absorbs water over time. Much like vermiculite, perlite has also been used for thousands of years, whether knowingly or unknowingly, as it naturally occurs in rich volcanic soils that have been favored by farmers throughout the ages. It usually consists of up to 75% of silicon dioxide, aluminum oxide, potassium oxide, iron oxide, calcium oxide, magnesium oxide, sodium oxide, and up to 5% water.

Horticultural uses of perlite:
Perlite occurs naturally in abundance and is relatively inexpensive
It has a neutral pH and does not contain nutrients
It is a highly porous material; it aerates soil making it lighter and encourages root growth by exposing roots to air
It is sterile, non-toxic, and does not leak chemicals into the soil
It promotes drainage in the soil preventing root rot
It has larger particles to reduce waterlogging and soil compaction
It can be used hydroponically, but not in aquaponics
Improves growth and yields
It is stable and does not deteriorate
Sun horticultural perlite is High-Quality Horticultural Grade

Are vermiculite and perlite organic?
Both resources are no more organic than rocks. They are inorganic compounds, however, most importantly, they are not synthetic. Plants grown using vermiculite and perlite are still considered organic as they are naturally occurring resources.

Vermiculite vs Perlite:
They are both mined minerals that can be used for insulation and water filtration. They can both hold moisture and improve drainage in soils. While both vermiculite and perlite hold water, they work in different ways:
– Vermiculite absorbs water and nutrients slowly releasing it over time, much like a sponge.
– Perlite, on the other hand, is round and holds its water like a little cavern structure. It holds much less water than vermiculite but holds much more air.
Summary:
Although both have many minor uses, the gist of it is:
Vermiculite aids in water and nutrient retention; perlite aids in drainage and aeration.