Perlite p500 coarse
Perlite is the generic name for naturally occurring siliceous volcanic rock.
Our supplier operates their own quarry, in the central North Island of New Zealand as well as importing perlite ore for specific applications from Turkey, Greece and the USA.
The expansion process is caused by the presence of water in the crude rock. When perlite ore is rapidly heated to above 850°c this water vaporises and causes the softened rock to expand. Tiny glass-like bubbles are produced which account for the lightweight and exceptional physical properties of expanded perlite.
So why use Perlite?
Perlite is a natural filtration system, allowing excess water to easily drain away while retaining a little moisture and catching nutrients that plants need to grow. This is especially true in raised beds and container gardens, but also in the ground as well.
Airflow in the soil is greatly improved in a bed amended with perlite, and that’s necessary both for your plant’s roots to breathe and for any worms, beneficial nematodes, and other good natural garden inhabitants. Because it’s a mineral glass and thus harder than the soil around it, it also helps to slow down compaction, and keeps your soil fluffy and lightweight.
What Type of Perlite to Use
People often ask whether you should use coarse perlite as opposed to medium or fine-grade. Coarse perlite has the highest air porosity, so it offers the most drainage capability and ensures the roots of your plants can breathe well. It’s popular among people who grow orchids and succulents, and also people who do a lot of container gardening, as it provides excellent drainage, but the coarser bits don’t work their way to the surface of the soil blend as much as fine perlite does. Larger perlite is also less prone to being caught by a breeze and blown away!
Sydney Hand Delivery
We personally hand deliver your plants across Sydney, Tuesday - Friday (excluding public holidays), from 7:00am to 7:00pm to ensure they arrive fresh and vibrant.
Delivery timeframe: 1 to 3 business days (excluding public holidays).
Local Delivery (Within 1 km)
Free for orders over $80.
Not available for orders under $80.
Inner City Delivery (Within 3 km )
Free for orders over $120
$30 for orders under $120.
Inner Sydney (Within 5 km)
$40 delivery fee on orders below $150.
Free delivery over $150
Sydney Delivery (Within 10 km)
$50 delivery fee on orders below $500.
Free delivery over $500
Greater Sydney Delivery (Within 15 km)
$70 delivery fee on orders below $700.
Free delivery over $700
Free delivery thresholds apply to the total after discounts.
If you're not home, we’ll leave your order in a safe place if possible. Otherwise, it will be returned to our Newtown studio for collection or redelivery (fee applies). Please provide any delivery instructions for our drivers to help keep your plants safe.
National Courier Shipping
We ship across most of Australia with AusPost and Shippit, excluding NT, WA and TAS due to quarantine restrictions.
100% Carbon neutral delivery
Your delivery has net-zero emissions thanks to Shippit.
Shipping charges calculated a checkout.
No express shipping available.
Orders ship Monday to Wednesday to reduce transit time; weekend orders ship Monday.
Some items may be unavailable for shipping due to size or fragility — this will be indicated on the product page.
Shipment typically occurs within 2–4 business days after your order is placed.
Delivery timelines are determined by the courier partner.
Important Information
Customers are responsible for understanding this policy before ordering.
We cannot guarantee delivery times due to courier delays beyond our control.
Shipping fees are non-refundable; claims will be reviewed by courier partners.
If delivery instructions or permission to leave parcels are not provided, your order may be returned and redelivery fees will apply.
You will receive a confirmation email after placing your order. If you do not, please contact us at hello@plantdaddy.com.au.
Thank you for supporting Plant Daddy — we look forward to helping you grow your indoor garden!