What are the disadvantages of perlite as growing media
One of the most important needs of plants is the quality of the soil and its requirements. Many houseplants like light and well-drained soil. This type of soil is either readily available on the markets or is only obtained from the combination of different soils. One of the components that can be added to improve the quality of the soil is usually a substance called "perlite". The proximity of perlite in the soil has numerous benefits for the plant. But what is perlite and what effect does it have on the soil? In this article, we will tell you all about perlite, its possible uses and the desired amount for the soil.
What is perlite and how is it formed?!
Perlite is volcanic glass formed by the cooling of molten lava and transformed into stone structures in the course of weathering processes and numerous transformations. For example, obsidian (lava glass) first hardens and then becomes soft stone. Perlite will be found in the future due to the abundance of volcanic material.
Wind perlite, which has a fine and small structure, is used in commercial cultivation. In mechanical industrial plants, this rock is heated up to 1000 degrees Celsius, which can be increased up to twenty-three times. Thick perlite has a low thickness, is usually white and looks like popcorn.
What are the benefits and uses of perlite for plants?!
Perlite can be found in many potting soils and potting mixes. Perlite can be used to retain water, make the soil better for plant growth and improve drainage. The correct use of perlite can help to ensure that the soil is better arranged and that the plants grow better over time. How much perlite should be added to the soil?
Using perlites in the garden and for growing pots
Perlite is considered a type of soil additive that follows the rules. Perlite is not a fertilizer. It is a substance that makes the soil better. Perlite soil has a neutral pH value, little salt and many small holes. The plant will therefore grow well in this environment. Now find out about the basic properties of perlite.
PH value of perlite: neutral
Source: volcanic rock
Salt content: very low
Use in soil: Planting, water retention, improving soil quality
In horticulture, it is mineralized as an additive to improve the soil or as a substrate for potting soil. The effect of perlite as a soil conditioner is that perlite stores a lot of water due to its high permeability and relatively large pore volume (around 95%) and can prevent soil compaction. These aggregates also have a positive effect on soil aeration and prevent salt from entering the soil.
Disadvantages
Perlite circular is known as an unsafe round material. Therefore, when working with perlite, one should beware of the resulting cleanliness. It is mandatory to cover the mouth and throat when working with perlite to prevent cleaning agents from entering the body. Perlite cleaner can aggravate existing respiratory problems and cause eye irritation. Perlite is not carcinogenic, but some commercially available perlite contains fine quartz particles that are known to be carcinogenic.
This substance prevents the healthy growth of plant roots at low temperatures.
In contrast to potting soil, perlite is a non-functional substrate. It therefore does not provide plants with any nutrients. Therefore, nutrients must be added to the pot via fertilizers and other organic matter.
This stone increases the need for watering. This is because excess water can drain out of the pot more easily. This increases the risk of the plant drying out.
This material cools down quickly in cooler seasons. It can therefore impair the natural growth of the roots.
How much perlite should we add to the soil of the pot?
Many potting soil suppliers use perlite to ensure far better water retention in their soil and to dry out the potting soil over time. The permeable surface of extensive perlite creates space for conversations and water, which is beneficial for root development, among other things. Depending on the soil conditions, between 5 and 35 % is added to the potting compost. In moist soil, it is mixed into the substrate over perlite.
In private gardens, perlite can be used in soils that can hold. This includes poor sandy soils or those in areas that are sufficiently covered. For heavily watered plants (root plants), the addition of perlite can help prevent water damage (especially on hot days). In most cases, mix garden soil with 10-20% perlite.
Benefits of perlite soil
What sizes are perlites available?!
0-3 mm
0-6 mm
2-6 mm
Seeds that are 0-6 mm in size can be used for growing plants or improving the soil. If you use it for mineral plates or potting soil, choose 2-6 mm grains. Otherwise the material will become mud. I can use all three grains to make the potting soil loose. The perlite and the soil in the pot should be mixed so that the perlite grains are evenly distributed in the soil.
a final word...
Although many people like perlite, it's not easy to get hold of. However, you can buy it in flower and plant stores or from people who arrange and sell flowers. Perlite comes in different packs, with the 10-pack being the most common and cheapest. The amount of perlite in each pack is different.
When buying perlite, make sure you choose the type with a silicone coating, as this is good for the soil and the plants. Avoid perlite without this coating as it can permanently damage the soil and plants.
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