What plants benefit most from perlite?
Written by
Tina Carter
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Perlite's drainage properties are critical for certain types of plants that cannot hold moisture. Plants in drier climates will grow best when combined with perlite in the soil. I have seen very positive effects on my desert species after incorporating perlite in their growing medium.
Orchid Maintenance
- Repot every 2 years with fresh perlite mix
- Suspend pots for maximum air circulation
- Mist aerial roots instead of soaking soil
Succulent Care
- Bottom water sparingly during growth season
- Provide 6+ hours of direct sunlight daily
- Protect from temperatures below 50°F (10°C)
Gardening in humid climates relies on perlite for moisture management. Plants like lavender and rosemary often experience root problems in soils with poor drainage. All the mildew in my herb garden dissipated when I added more perlite to their containers.
Species that have adapted to desert conditions show an impressive resilience with perlite. The root systems of barrel cacti and agave plants are also faring better in fast-draining mixes. For my rare cacti combinations, I use a mix that is 80% perlite. This has prevented them from rotting after torrential rains, which is unusual for the time of year.
Specialized propagation accesses the benefits of perlite's structural properties. Root cuttings can be placed in pure perlite for ideal oxygen exchange. My success rates were doubled compared to alternative media. Just enough water to keep the perlite slightly moist, but never saturated, during the rooting time.
Choosing the right container enhances the effectiveness of perlite. Use unglazed terracotta pots that breathe. Top-dressing with rocks reduces evaporation from the surface. My succulents thrive in these setups and only require watering every month in cooler weather.
Read the full article: Vermiculite vs Perlite: Ultimate Comparison
