|
Perlite
Perlite is a naturally occurring silicaceous volcanic rock which has been heated in a furnace to create lightweight particles with a honeycomb of internal cells and a high surface area.
The multi-cellular structure affords a very high pore volume, typically 97% of total volume. Pores may be filled with air or water, depending on size. Large pores drain freely and are air-filled, medium pores contain water which is easily available for plant uptake. As pores get smaller, water is held more strongly and in the smallest pores is unavailable for plant growth.
The air trapped in the perlite is insulated from temperature variations and therefore helps stabilise the compost temperature.
Sinclair Perlite has a neutral pH of between 6.5 - 7.5, is chemically and biologically stable and does not lock up or promote nutrient release.
Benefits
- Inorganic and sterile.
- Free from pest, diseases and weeds.
- Helps reduce compaction and 'slumping' of growing media.
- Improves compost aearation.
- Makes growing media easier to manage because of improved wetting and capillary movement of water.
- Helps stabilise compost temperature.
 |
Sinclair Perlite SuperfineParticle size: 0.15 - 2.0 mm.
Total water-holding capacity: 673 ml/litre
Use at up to 20% by volume.
For maximum moisture retention with some aeration and drainage.
Its ability to adhere to the surface of the peat promotes wetting and the capillary movement of water means that composts are also easier to manage, wetting up easily and with uniform water distribution.
|
 |
Sinclair Perlite Special SeedParticle size: 1.0 - 3.0 mm
Total water-holding capacity: 476 ml/litre
Use at up to 25% by volume.
For good aeration and drainage plus high moisture retention.
Useful for improving the aeration of composts in small containers e.g. for alpines and young plants.
Also useful in larger containers where improved aeration is required without reducing water-holding capacity.
|
 |
Sinclair Perlite StandardParticle size: 1.0 - 5.0 mm
Total water-holding capacity: 275 ml/litre
Use at up to 40% by volume.
For optimum aeration, drainage and moisture retention in most growing media.
Can be used to replace sand or grit in potting composts and container composts.
Will give a well-drained environment in large containers, promoting healthy root growth.
|
 |
Sinclair Perlite SupercoarseParticle size: 1.0 - 5.0 mm
Total water-holding capacity: 225 ml/litre
Use at up to 20% by volume.
For maximum aeration and drainage.
Ideal for potting composts for orchids, bromeliads, tropical plants and bonsai.
Can be used as an alternative to Standard Perlite in large containers.
|
How to Use
Seed Germination
Use Special Seed Perlite and incorporate in peat-based compost at a rate of 5-25%.
Helps to improve water-holding capacity but does not become sodden.
Ideal for seeds that are slow to germinate.
Rooting Cuttings
Use Special Seed Perlite or Standard Perlite (depending on the size of the cuttings) and incorporate in peat-based compost at a rate of up to 25%.
Helps improve rooting time by improving aeration of the substrate and helps with insulation.
Can be used for a wide range of bedding, houseplants and nursery stock.
Potting Compost
Use Standard or Supercoarse Perlite at a rate of 40% in peat-based substrates to improve aeration, drainage and insulation.
As it is a lightweight proudct it is useful in substrates where weight is an issue.
Hydroponics
Use Perlite Supercoarse at a rate of 100% in grow bags for hydroponic systems.
Information Sheet Download |
 |
Perlite Information Sheet
296 Kb
|
