A perlite alternative

Published January 05, 2017

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PBH rice hulls are proven alternative to perlite.

In recent years, as greenhouse growers have embraced sustainability and looked for feasible ways to reduce production costs, the use of parboiled rice hulls in greenhouse growing media has become a popular substitute for perlite. These uniquely processed hulls offer growers environmental, horticultural and economic advantages with no reduction in plant quality. PBH Nature’s Media Amendment, the parboiled rice hulls marketed by Riceland Foods, Inc., are OMRI Listed® and WSDA registered.

Available at a lower basic cost than perlite, PBH rice hulls dramatically reduce dust in the greenhouse mixing environment. Their natural color blends well with other media components, while highly compressed packaging in 50-lb. standard bags or 30-cu.-ft. bulk bales generates less waste and reduces storage, handling and freight.

The size, shape and bulking properties of these greenhouse-proven and university-researched rice hulls offer some porosity, air-filled pore space and drainage advantages over perlite. Depending on the PBH percentage, PBH mixes may hold more water than perlite mixes. Always trial any material used in a new application for adaptability to your operation.

For more information and a list of distributors, visit www.riceland.com or call 870-673-5575

Brent Horvath, Intrinsic Perennial Gardens

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