Specialty SoilsQuality First Find My SoilFind Soil
Compost & Amendments · 9 min

Perlite, Pumice, Worm Castings and Other Amendments: What Each One Does

Different amendments change different properties. Choose the problem first, then the ingredient.

Updated August 13, 2026 · By Specialty Soils

Quick answer

An amendment should have a job. Adding a random ingredient because it sounds beneficial often creates an expensive mix without solving the actual problem.

An amendment should have a job. Adding a random ingredient because it sounds beneficial often creates an expensive mix without solving the actual problem.

Pumice

A porous mineral component that can add drainage, air space and durable structure to specialty media.

Perlite

A lightweight amendment used to increase pore space. Fine and coarse grades suit different applications.

Worm castings

A concentrated organic amendment used in gardens, containers and propagation mixes. It is not normally the primary structural component of a potting mix.

Compost

Adds organic matter and is a major component in many soil blends.

Fertilizer and mineral nutrients

These address plant nutrition rather than physical structure. Always follow current labels and crop requirements.

Specialty Soils notes
  • Do not add drainage amendments without understanding the existing mix.
  • Physical properties and fertility are different problems.
  • Custom formulation is often more consistent than modifying every batch by hand.

Turn the guide into an order.

Use the soil finder, open a product calculator, or send Specialty Soils your project details.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know which Specialty Soils product fits my project?

Use the What Soil Do I Need tool, compare the products linked in this guide, or send us the project details for a recommendation.

Can I buy this material in bulk?

Many products are available in bulk, bagged, or both. The product page shows current formats and whether a firm online price is available.

Can Specialty Soils deliver it?

Bulk delivery is available depending on material, order size, access and destination. Exact delivery pricing is confirmed before scheduling.

Connected planning path

Use compost in the right part of the project

Compost is an amendment. Connect the guide to an existing-soil improvement plan and the correct product category.

Related guides

How to Use Compost in Gardens, Lawns and Landscapes
Compost & Amendments · 9 min

How to Use Compost in Gardens, Lawns and Landscapes

Compost is useful in many places, but the application method should match the job.

How to use compost in garden →
Biochar in Soil: What It Is and How to Use It Sensibly
Compost & Amendments · 8 min

Biochar in Soil: What It Is and How to Use It Sensibly

Biochar is a porous carbon-rich material. It works best when treated as a soil component, not a miracle cure.

How to use biochar in soil →
How to Fill a Raised Garden Bed the Right Way
Garden How-To · 8 min

How to Fill a Raised Garden Bed the Right Way

Figure out how deep to fill your bed, how much soil to order, and when compost belongs in the mix.

How to fill a raised garden bed →
Continue this project

Useful next steps

Search by project, material, problem or question.