Your homemade perlite mix can be cast into a variety of shapes and sizes for the garden.
Perlite is a volcanic mineral that has been heated until it puffs up into a light sand. It is used in gardening applications, particularly as an additive to potting soil for its ability to aerate the soil and retain water. When combined with Portland cement in a homemade mixture called hypertufa, perlite adds a lightness to the cement, creating something like a stone styrofoam. The hypertufa can then be cast into various decorative or utilitarian objects for the home and garden. The most common use for hypertufa is as a medium to cast garden and patio planters. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Mix cement, perlite and peat moss in the mixing bin at a ratio of 1:1:1. For example, if you will use 1 gallon of cement, use 1 gallon of perlite and peat as well. Wear a mask and gloves to protect yourself from the cement powder.
2. Slowly add water to the mix. Use half the volume used for the dry ingredients. For example, if using the 1 gallon mix, use 1/2 gallon of water. Stir the moistened mix with a paint stirrer or trowel. The hypertufa should be thoroughly moistened and form a ball in your fist when you squeeze it.
3. Transfer the cement mixture into your casting container. You can use any desirably shaped container for casting: a large bowl, box, plastic bin or tub, trough or a garden planter. If using a metal container, oil the inside of it first to avoid sticking. Pat the wet mix into your container in an even layer at least 6 inches thick. Be sure to pack the cement in to avoid air bubbles being trapped in the mix.
4. Place cast mix and container in a plastic bag. This will prevent it from drying too fast and curing improperly. Let it sit for 2-3 days.
5. Remove hypertufa from the bin by turning the bin upside down and gently tapping on the bottom. Do this over a table with a blanket on it to prevent damage. Let the planter dry for another 5-7 days until it is bone dry.
6. Drill drainage holes in the bottom of the container if you will use it as a planter.
Tags: cast into, into your, perlite peat
