Potting soil is an artificially prepared substrate that is mixed specifically to meet the needs of different plants. Find out more about the white stones in the soil and why they are an important component in high-quality plant soil.
What are the white stones in the potting soil?
The small white stones are not snail eggs, Styrofoam balls or mold. Rather, it isPerlite, which can store a particularly large amount of water and nutrients. They supply the plant when needed and keep the substrate dry and well ventilated.
What are the white stones in the potting soil made of?
Perlites are prepared volcanic rocks. This is heated strongly and puffs up like popcorn. The volume increases tenfold and numerous pores are created in which water and nutrients collect. Similar to expanded clay,waterlogging can be prevented in the flower pot. Nevertheless, the plant is optimally cared for over a longer period of time.
Tip
How to tell the difference to limescale spots on the potting soil
If you discover white spots on the surface of your houseplants, it could also be lime. This settles on the surface due to particularly calcareous irrigation water, but is harmless. They are easy to scrape or remove with a wooden stick or fork. In contrast to lime deposits, perlite can be found throughout the substrate.