Chillagoe Horticultural Perlite
Chillagoe Horticultural Perlite is the lightweight volcanic rock that nurseries rely on for propagation – the same stuff used in most quality commercial potting mixes.
Potting mix that stays soggy and kills roots?
Dense soil holds too much water. Roots sit wet, can't breathe, and rot. Cuttings fail to strike. Seedlings dampen off. You're doing everything right, but the mix is working against you.
Air pockets that actually work
Perlite's irregular chunks create permanent gaps between soil particles. Water drains through, but air gets in. Roots breathe. The volcanic rock itself holds moisture in its pores – so plants can access water when they need it, but excess drains away.
It's sterile, pH neutral, and won't break down or compact over time. Mix it through potting soil, use it straight for propagation, or blend it into garden beds that need better drainage.
How to Use It
| Application | Mix Ratio | Best Grade |
|---|---|---|
| General potting mix | 10–30% perlite | Medium or Coarse |
| Seed raising | 30–50% perlite | Fine or Medium |
| Cuttings & propagation | 50–100% perlite | Medium or Coarse |
| Cacti & succulents | 30–50% perlite | Coarse or Super Coarse |
| Orchids | 20–40% perlite | Super Coarse or Jumbo |
| Heavy clay soil | 20–30% worked in | Coarse |
| Hydroponics | 100% perlite | Medium to Super Coarse |
For propagation, wet the perlite first – dry perlite floats and makes a mess.
Good to Know
Finer grades hold more water. Coarser grades drain faster and create bigger air gaps. Most propagators prefer medium to coarse for striking cuttings – enough moisture retention without staying waterlogged.
Popular with orchid growers who need fast drainage and plenty of air around roots. Also a staple for cactus and succulent growers where root rot is the main killer.
The tiny air bubbles inside each chunk insulate roots – keeps them cooler in summer, warmer in winter.
At a Glance
| Material | Expanded volcanic rock |
| pH | Neutral (6.5–7.5) |
| Sterile | Yes – no weeds or disease |
| Lifespan | Won't break down or rot |
| Grades available | Fine (1.5–2.5mm), Medium (1.6–3mm), Coarse (3–5mm), Super Coarse (5–7mm), Jumbo (6.5–10mm) |
| Made in | Australia |
