We offer much more than just Vermiculite these days and Perlite is the newest addition to the Palmetto family!
Perlite is a naturally occurring mineral that is a type of volcanic glass. Also called “Pearl stone”, it is created when volcanic lava or magma is rapidly cooled and has a pearly luster, from which its name is derived.
We make sure that Palmetto Perlite has been expanded as much as possible, and is free of fines or any debris. “Fines” are tiny particles of the product itself that are too small to assist much with aerating soil, but can still offer amazing properties that apply to other industries. “Debris” is any foreign matter that is not perlite, like dirt or pieces of rock that may have snuck in while being mined. Once the exfoliation is complete, the perlite is then screened again, cooled, packaged, and ready to be used. Perlite is sterile, as well as pH neutral.
Horticulture Grade
Perlite makes a wonderful additive for growing media to aerate soil. It keeps the structure of soil loose & light and is great for starting seedlings, or for potted plants that need good drainage. Less compacted soil means a reduction in unhealthy bacteria growth in the soil, warding off issues like mold or root rot. Some plants that thrive with perlite include Aloe Vera, succulents, cacti, Venus Fly Traps, and Cannabis. If you are planting your vegetable garden, you will want Palmetto Perlite in your mix!
When it comes to perlite and plants, you want the lightest product possible as it will keep the soil looser, lighter, and more aerated the less it weighs. A 4 cubic ft bag of Palmetto Perlite weighs approximately 18 pounds, so that is 4.5 lbs. per cubic foot.
Industrial Fines
When perlite ore is cooked in the furnace, it expands and creates a foam-like cellular internal structure. Through the expansion and screening process you create Fines. Fine grades of perlite are mostly broken portions of these clusters, exhibiting a very large surface area, lending themselves to the efficient absorption of liquids. Expanded perlite Fines are especially useful in solidifying sludges because they can absorb a high percentage of liquid while adding minimal additional weight.
Filtration Fines
Perlite filter aids are both sterile and inert and are used for filtering liquids in the beverage, food and pharmaceutical industries. No tastes, colors, or odors are imparted from the perlite and allow the liquid to flow while capturing unwanted particles.
Want to know more? Call Us at (800) 729-2796 to find out how Palmetto Perlite can help your garden & business grow!
