Horticulture
Due to its neutral pH and ability to carry fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides, perlite is widely used in the horticultural industry. Proven to help achieve outstanding yields with perlite hydroponic systems. Perlite is also used in soil-less mixes when high amounts of moisture and aeration are vital for superior plant growth. Another reason why perlite is vital in horticulture because it is sterile and weed free which is ideal for rooting cuttings and container growing. Because of its light weight it is perfect for roof gardens and then low weight and compression soil is needed.
Compost Formulations
Below are serveral formulations which can act as a starting point from which growers can develop mixes to suit their own plants and growing conditions.
Sowing & Rooting Compost
A basic mix for a wide variety of plants
Note: Cover seeds with a thin top layer of fine peat
Perlite | 50% |
Peat | 50% |
Rooting Compost
For propagating delicate cuttings e.g. carnations, fushias, geraniums, etc.
Perlite | 75% |
Peat | 25% |
Seedling Compost
For bedding and tomato seedlings, etc.
Perlite | 382 litres | 0.5 cu. yd. |
382 litres | 0.5 cu. yd. | |
Peat | 2.27 kg | 5 lbs |
Ground Limestone | 0.91 kg | 2 lbs |
Super Phosphate | 0.68 kg | 1.5 lbs |
(0-20-0) | 57 g | 2 oz |
Potassium Nitrate
Fritted Trace Elements
Potting Compost
General purpose formula using compound fertiliser.
Perlite | 191 litres | 0.25 cu. yd. |
573 litres | 0.75 cu. yd. | |
Peat | 3.4 kg | 7.5 lbs |
Ground Limestone | 5 kg | 11 lbs |
0.68 kg | 1.5 lbs |
Compound Fertiliser with trace elements(e.g. John Innes base or equivalent of proprietry nutrient mixes such as Vitax Q-4, Chempak, Phostrogen, etc - see manufacturer's instructions)
Potting Compost
General purpose formula using compound fertiliser.
Perlite
Peat
Ammonium Nitrate
Super Phosphate
Potassium Nitrate
Ground Limestone
Dolomitic Limestone
Frittted Trace Elements
|
191 litres
573 litres
283 g
0.91 kg
0.28 kg
1.81 kg
1.81 kg
0.28 kg
|
0.25 cu. yd.
0.75 cu. yd.
10 ozs.
2 lbs.
10 ozs.
4 lbs.
4 lbs.
10 ozs.
|
Container Compost
For trees, shrubs and climbers, etc in tubs, hanging baskets, etc.
Perlite
Peat
Sterilised Soil
Ground Limestone
Fertiliser
(as per either Potting Compost above)
|
153 litres
306 litres
306 litres
1.81 kg
|
0.2 cu. yd.
0.4 cu. yd
0.4 cu. yd
4 lbs
|
Container Compost
A simple mix, if sterlised soil is not readily available. The mix is approximately equivalent in nutrient content to a John Innes No. 2 and in formulation to a 2:1:2 loam:peat:perlite mix
Perlite
John Innes No. 3
|
0.2 cu. yd.
0.8 cu. yd.
|