Perlite & vermiculite
Perlite and vermiculite are lightweight, inert growing media additives used to improve aeration, drainage and moisture retention in hydroponic and soil-based mixes. Perlite is heat-expanded volcanic rock that boosts drainage and root-zone oxygen, while vermiculite holds more moisture, making it ideal for seed starting and propagation. Our range includes Perlite Grade 3, HY-GEN Perlite and Vermiculite 2-4mm.
Why perlite and vermiculite matter
Straight coco or soil can compact over time, starving roots of oxygen and slowing growth. Blending in perlite opens up the mix for better drainage and aeration, while vermiculite's fine, absorbent structure holds extra moisture and nutrients around the root zone. Used together or separately, they let growers fine-tune a substrate's air-to-water ratio for the specific crop, container size and watering schedule, rather than relying on a single fixed-ratio medium.
What's in this collection
Perlite | Grade 3 — heat-expanded volcanic rock for aeration and drainage, 10L, 50L and 100L bags
HY-GEN Perlite 50L — bulk perlite for larger grows and commercial mixes
Vermiculite 2-4mm — natural mineral for moisture retention, seed starting and propagation, in 10L, 50L and 100L bags
How to choose the right perlite or vermiculite
Perlite vs vermiculite
Perlite holds more air and less water, so it's best where you need extra drainage and oxygen at the root zone — think coco blends, propagation trays or free-draining pots. Vermiculite holds more moisture for longer, which suits seed starting, cuttings and soil mixes that dry out too quickly between waterings.
Blend ratios
A common starting point is 60% coco to 40% perlite for improved drainage, or 50% coco with 25% vermiculite and 25% perlite for a more balanced mix. Adjust the ratio up or down depending on your pot size, irrigation frequency and how fast your chosen medium dries out.
Bag size for your grow
A 10L bag suits a handful of pots or a propagation tray, while 50L and 100L bags are more economical for larger tents, multiple plants or commercial-scale mixing.
Shop perlite & vermiculite at A-Grade Hydroponics
A-Grade Hydroponics has been Melbourne's trusted hydroponic supplier since 2013, testing every grow medium before it reaches our shelves. Shop Perlite Grade 3, HY-GEN Perlite and Vermiculite 2-4mm online or in-store at Cheltenham, VIC, with expert growing advice from seed to harvest — call (03) 9555 6667 or browse the range.
