using perlite in outdoorsoil

Here I can only order very huge bags with perlite. I want to use it in a startingmix for my seeds. But..oww..this is so much. I thought to mix it with my gardensoil. I have a very sunny garden that can be very dry in summer. But what does perlite do after a while in the soil? Will it still be okay? Anyone has experienced this or has an answer? Thanks.

I think there shouldn't be any problems. I mix perlite with another kinds of soil when I want to improve drainage of the soil of container or pot.
So, why don't you use them for soil of containers? The perlite is used to hanging basket especially, because the weight is light. They also used to making a cutting.

I thought you were supposed to use it in garden soil especially
if you have heavy clay soils. I tested one spot this year
and was very happy with the improved texture.

How much did you get and how much did you pay? I need
to find some before next year.

I know perlite helps with drainage in heavy clay soils but I am wondering about using it in soils that don't retain water well. You said your soil dries out in summer and I am thinking that perlite might add to the problem. Will you also be adding compost, manure, leaf mold or other water retaining substances?

I really don't know the answer to your question but I think you might want to explore a little further before you add it. Can you talk to a local master gardener or your agricultural extension bureau?

Thanks all of you ! I just was wondering if the perlite will keep the moist longer and if it cannot damage the soil at time. I live in the Netherlands, so we have summerrains a lot, but also periods with lots of sunshine. My garden is facing south and I was wondering if the perlite can storage the moist longer and give a good drainage during rainy periods also. I know that perlite has that funktion (storage water) and gives a good drainage also. But what if I mix it with the gardensoil? Of course I give compost etc., mulch organic and water (a few times only)the ground during hot periods. I'll ask around here also, but I have more faith in advices I get from you :-) Here in the Netherlands, perlite is not easy to get...the only place for me as a hobbygardner to get it, is in "growshops" where they sell everything for growing cannabis. So there's always an illegal odeur around these shops. But they have great stuff for growing ordinary seeds. I think I just try it on a spot in my garden and see what it does.

perlite http://www.thegardensuperstore.co.uk/Perlite.htm , http://www.schundler.com/planting.htm , http://www.charleysgreenhouse.com/GdnTips/Mixing-soil_tips.htm

Thanks MaVieRose..that'll help!

u're welcome Saya :).