What is perlite and how is it used?

What is perlite and how is it used? One of the basic principles in growing plants is to use quality and suitable soil. Choosing the right soil will help plants grow better. Light and porous soils are suitable options for many plants. There are different types of soil available in the market, which are prepared with different compositions, including perlite, coco peat and peat moss. Perlite is one of the important components that improves soil quality and is very useful for agriculture. In this article, we will examine the characteristics and applications of perlite soil in agriculture.

 Perlite soil: A valuable option for agriculture

Perlite soil is one of the different types of soil are used in agriculture and gardening. This type of soil is made of volcanic rock and its main element is silica. Perlite soil has the ability to expand between 4 and 30 times its original volume when exposed to high temperatures. The name "perlite" is derived from the word "perl" meaning pearl.

In its raw form, perlite contains 3 to 6 percent water. However, by applying heat at high temperatures, the water in the structure of the raw perlite rock evaporates and millions of very small bubbles form in its structure. In this way, perlite becomes a porous structure and the volume of its grains increases sharply and its color changes from black or dark gray to white. In addition to silica, other elements such as aluminum, sodium, calcium, potassium, manganese, and iron are also found in the structure of perlite.

Perlite soil conditioner is a popular option in agriculture because it has proven its unique properties in improving soil structure and increasing plant growth.

 Improving soil quality using perlite

Adding perlite to the soil has important benefits. For example, this action increases the amount of water absorption and retention in the soil and prevents water evaporation. Also, by using perlite, water is placed in the soil in large quantities and with uniform distribution, which prevents water and nutrient waste, and as a result, it will save water consumption. The porosity in perlite increases air and gas exchange in the soil, which helps plant roots have the best conditions for growth. It also reduces the accumulation of gases in the soil, allowing roots to grow more easily. On the other hand, soils that lack perlite do not have the ability to absorb and retain water and nutrients and do not provide oxygen well, which can lead to plant drying out. Given these points, using perlite can help improve soil quality and, as a result, better plant growth.

 How to use perlite in potting soil and prepare the soil for planting

How to use perlite in potting soil and prepare the soil for planting plants can be done in different ways. Initially, perlite can be used alone or in combination with various types of potting soil, which improves air penetration in the planting bed and increases soil drainage. The benefits of adding perlite to soil include improving soil structure and helping to drain excess water. To prepare the soil for growing plants, perlite can be mixed with a certain ratio of soil and organic matter and poured into the soil to a certain depth, then the soil can be improved and prepared for growing plants by using various organic materials, such as organic fertilizers or other compounds. For example, a mixture of one cup of peat moss, one cup of loam, and one cup of perlite is excellent for growing plants in pots and helps retain enough water and oxygen in the soil.

 Using perlite for planting seedlings and creating green spaces

First, plow the soil to a depth of 15 to 30 centimeters using a tool such as a tractor, shovel, or rake. Then, spread the perlite on the ground to a thickness of about 1.5 to 5 centimeters. You can also add 1.5 to 5 cm of compost or wood chips and sawdust or nitrogen fixer (about 65.0 cm).

Then, mix the perlite and organic fertilizer thoroughly with the soil, and then water it and smooth the ground to make it even before planting. Finally, sow the seeds and cover the seeds with a layer of perlite and peat moss mixture or fertilizer.