Q. Can I use Perlitek as a stand alone growing medium?
Perlitek is frequently used as a standalone growing medium. However, in high-water settings such as deep water culture or ebb-and-flow hydroponic systems, the small size and low density of perlitek means that it tends to float.
It does, however, combine well with many other hydroponic substrates which are larger, heavier, or denser. It is typically mixed with vermiculite or coco coir to prevent it from shifting or even washing away.
Q. Is Perlitek Organic?
From a chemistry perspective, organic compounds are those that contain carbon. Perlitek does not contain carbon, so it is an inorganic mineral. But in the context of growing stuff, like organic farming, the meaning or the word “organic” is different. It means something that is naturally extracted from the earth and doesn't undergo significant chemical processing. Perlitek is a mined mineral that undergoes some physical processing. It is actually allowed by the National Organic Standards Board for use in certified organic agriculture. So if you are planning to do some organic farming or horticulture, yes, perlitek is a safe “organic” additive.
Q. What other growing mediums can I mix with Perlitek?
There are two "classic" perlite mixes. One is 50/50 with Vermiculite (often used for starting seeds off) the other is to mix it at around 10-20% into soil or coir to improve drainage and structure.
Q. Are there different types of Perlitek?
Perlite manufactured for gardening and horticulture purposes are usually graded into three different categories depending on the size of the individual particles:
Coarse Perlite
This has the highest porosity and draining capabilities. It is best suited for succulent plants and orchids. It is also least affected by winds! But it doesn't work its way up to the topsoil very easily.
Medium Grade Perlite
This straddles the middle ground regarding aeration and draining. It is best suited for potted seeds and seedlings.
Fine Perlite
This is the lightest grade, best suited for starting seeds and root cuttings. Fine particles of perlite can also be scattered lightly on top of the soil in your gardens and lawns.
Q. Can landscapers benefit from using Perlitek?
Absolutely! Perlitek changes soil structure. Clay soils will drain better while sandy, droughty soils will retain more moisture. Perlitek amended planting areas are easier to work with making weed-pulling a snap. Rooftop gardens, balcony planters and movable planters all can benefit from decreased weights. Fully watered soil weighs up to 125 lbs. per cu. ft. whereas a well wetted Perlitek/peat moss mix weighs as little as 40 lbs. per cu. ft.
Q. Perlite vs Vermiculite - what's the difference?
Perlite is directly comparable to another mineral additive called Vermiculite. Both have overlapping functions and help with soil aeration and seed starting.
Perlite has more air porosity than vermiculite, and better drainage effects as well. Vermiculite, on the other hand, retains water much better than perlite. Perlite is better suited for succulent plants, while vermiculite is better for tropical plants that need more moisture retained in the soil.
A perfect blend for young plants is 50% Perlite (Perlitek) and 50% Vermiculite (Vermitek) - this gives you the best of both Worlds and is a widely growing media used in the horticultural industry.
Q. Can I reuse Perlitek?
If it's being used as a stand alone growing medium, we strongly advise against it. Perlitek will hold onto nutrients and used perlitek will be very nutritionally unbalanced. If you use it as a soil additive at 10-20% and reuse the soil, there shouldn't be any problems.
Q. Is it dangerous to breath the dust that Perlite gives off?
Inhaling perlite dust is not recommended. The best thing is to wet it first and let the dust run off that way. However, beware really cold tapwater, as mentioned above. The dust won't irritate your skin, it's only bad if you get it into your lungs.
