In trying to get enough compost to go no-dig on the allotment, I've found an offer of compost mixed with perlite that was previously used for growing salads. Assuming the recycled nature of the compost wasn't itself an issue, would there be a problem adding a load of perlite in compost as a mulch?
I wouldn't have thought perlite would be a problem - its for water retention and, apparently, used in a ratio of 1:4.
Just had a search for adding it to raised beds, thinking it's similar, and that seems to be quite common. For some reason it makes me a bit itchy thinking of it sitting on the surface.
Do you know how the lettuce were grown in the compost? Organic? Fertilised? Treated with pesticides? Just off the top of my head thoughts!
Thanks, Veggie. I did ask. He said peat free compost with perlite, organic (I think he means no fertilizer) and no pesticides. I asked about perennial weeds as well, because I'm annoying.
Yes, he'd deliver, which is another plus point for us.
If the price is right, I can't think of a reason not to buy it.
I use perlite quite a but with cutting/dahlia cuttings. I wouldn't worry about it.
I chuck old potting mix on to my raised beds and that often contains perlite. It eventually sinks in to the soil.