Can Anyone think of...

Something similar to perlite but has bigger particle sizes? I want to see if I can make my mix for my orchid cacti more porous for the ones which prefer free-er draining soil... something like large Seramis but cheaper would be good I know some use baked type cat litter but the particle sizes are more akin to perlite...

 

I should mention I want something inert that won't breakdown and effect the growth of my plants so instantly orchid bark is out

 

Pumice? I hit my head on a floating rock of it whilst swimming in the med.

 

Hmmm... this could work, it's also light so I might be able to by it mail order

Update:

Just emailed a local bonsai nursery to see if they sell pumice

 

Save your money, a lightweight concrete block has the same properties. Available free from a local skip

Just need to use Mr Snuggles the Lump hammer on it

 

you mean a breeze block? even better cheap and available

 

Thermalite is one of the trade names, its an aerated concrete block, very light and identical to pumice.

 

Would concrete not leach into the soil??

 

Hortag or Perlag, can you still get that?

 

There's a type of stone that washes up all along the coast round my way (probably common everywhere), that is full of tiny holes. You could collect some of that up off the beach and either use it as is, or smash it into smaller bits with a hammer perhaps.

 

Google "grow rocks" or "grow stones" I cant remember which but they are made from recycled glass, retain water and air more efficiently then perlite and is recycling so good for the earth.

Twelve/Twelve
:D