
Perlite – Airy Structure, Excellent Drainage and Ideal for Worm Composting and Propagation Soil
Perlite, the expanded volcanic rock with an exceptionally light and porous character, is an indispensable soil improver for both professional growers and hobby gardeners. This natural product ensures optimal aeration, improved drainage and a stable growth environment for roots, worms and microorganisms. Available in 2, 10 and 25 liter paper bags, or in a 1000-liter big bag. Suitable for organic use. Brand: Franky’s Flora.
What is Perlite?
Perlite is formed from obsidian, a volcanic glass containing small amounts of water. When heated to about 900 to 1200 degrees Celsius, it expands explosively as the trapped water vaporizes. This creates a white, granular material with an open honeycomb structure.
This unique structure makes perlite:
extremely lightweight
highly air- and water-permeable
chemically inert
pH-neutral
fully mineral and sustainable
Thanks to these properties, perlite is ideal as a soil improver, lightweight substrate component and professional propagation material.
Why Use Perlite?
1. Improved Drainage and Aeration
Perlite creates air channels in the soil, preventing root rot and improving soil structure. It is the best choice for heavy, compacted or wet soils. Worms benefit from the improved aeration and move more easily through the substrate.
2. Ideal for Sowing and Propagating
The granular texture prevents seedlings from collapsing or suffocating. In propagation mixes, perlite provides the ideal balance between moisture and oxygen, resulting in faster and healthier root development.
3. Perfect for Worm Composting
Perlite holds moisture without compacting the substrate. This keeps worm compost airy and stable, supporting an active and healthy worm population.
4. Suitable for Hydroponics
Perlite can be used as a standalone growing medium or mixed with coconut fiber or other substrates. It supports roots, retains water and optimizes oxygen availability.
5. Environmentally Friendly and Safe
Perlite is natural, inert, non-toxic and fully recyclable. It contains no chemical additives and is suitable for organic cultivation.
Applications of Perlite
Horticulture
Soil improvement: enhances drainage and aeration in potting mixes and garden soil.
Seed and propagation soil: prevents compaction and promotes root growth.
Potting mix component: ideal for houseplants, vegetable gardens and container plants.
Hydroponics
Use perlite as a standalone medium or as part of a substrate blend.
Industry and Construction
Thermal and acoustic insulation.
Lightweight concrete: reduces weight and improves energy efficiency.
Dosage and Mixing Ratios
Soil Improvement
Mix 10 to 30 percent perlite into existing soil to improve drainage and aeration.
Seed and Propagation Soil
Mix 1:1 with worm castings for optimal root development.
Hydroponics
Use perlite as a standalone medium or mix it with coconut fiber, clay pebbles or other substrates.
Perlite vs. Vermiculite – What’s the Difference?
Property | Perlite | Vermiculite |
|---|---|---|
Material | Volcanic rock | Expanded mica |
Structure | Granular, hard | Flaky, soft |
Water retention | Limited, good drainage | High water retention |
Aeration | High | Medium |
Ideal use | Drainage, aeration, worm compost, propagation | Sowing, moisture retention |
Weight | Very light | Slightly heavier |
Choose perlite when drainage, aeration and stability are the priorities.
Choose vermiculite when maximum moisture retention is desired, such as during seed germination.
Why Choose Franky’s Flora Perlite?
Packaged in paper bags: completely plastic-free.
Suitable for organic use: free from chemicals and heavy metals.
Extremely lightweight: easy to use and ideal for airy substrate mixes.
Chemically inert and safe: suitable for plants, animals and compost systems.
Professional quality: perfect for growers, worm farmers and hobby gardeners.
Optimize Your Soil with Perlite
Perlite provides the ideal balance between water, air and insulation, helping plants grow stronger, healthier and more resilient. A smart choice for potting soil, vegetable gardens, worm compost, houseplants and professional horticulture.







