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Glossary

Expanded Clay or Arlite

Lightweight expanded clay balls for drainage, hydroponics, and preventing waterlogged root balls.

1 min read

Arlite consists of lightweight baked clay balls. At the bottom of the pot, they create a cushion that keeps the roots away from the water plate. In hydroponics, they can be the sole medium.

Bottom vs Mix

Layer of 2-3 cm at the bottom: classic and useful if the plate fills up. Mixed in the substrate: aerates, but large balls leave gaps. Wash it if it comes dusty.

Hydroponics

It can be reused by washing. It does not provide nutrients. Fertilizer goes in the water. A carbon filter and good pH matter more than “more arlite”.

What We Recommend at Control Garden

Arlite in packs with perlite and vermiculite, or combined in pairs. For pots of 11-25 L, the small pack covers several.

Recommended products

View catalogue

FAQs

Does it replace perlite?
At the bottom, yes, as drainage. In root volume, perlite distributes better.
Can it be used as mulch?
Yes, to reduce evaporation and mosquitoes. Don’t overdo it: it’s hard to see the substrate's moisture.
Does it float?
Very dry ones float a bit. After the first watering, they settle.

Keep reading

All universes

Drainage in Pots

Without water drainage, even the most expensive substrate turns into a swamp with yellow leaves.

Perlite

Expanded volcanic rock that aerates the substrate and prevents compact root balls.

Drainage substrate for pots

The solution to yellow swamp leaves is air in the root ball, no more fertilizer.

Vermiculite

Expanded mineral that retains water and cations. Ideal for overly dry terraces.