Perlite is made by heating silica (flakes of glass) until it expands (like popcorn). Due to its low density and relatively low price, this substance is used in lightweight plasters and mortars, insulation, and ceiling tiles.
The small nodules hold water well, yet also provide excellent drainage in horticulture. This medium keeps plants more open to the air, while still having good water-retention properties, and therefore it makes a good medium for hydroponics. It is often used as a filler and mixed with heavier media to help improve drainage.
However, you can actually grow hydroponic plants in a bucket system using nothing but perlite!
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