Perlite alternatives

[Allenpro]

Perlite primarily improves drainage and aeration, gravel wont improve aeration

[ductwizard]

if perlite is basically just taking up space, couldn't you use gravel. i only ask because i'm trying to get my soil grow to drain better and i have gravel laying around

[Allenpro]

"My water is air stoned before use, so stagnant bags aren't an issue."
Are you using Bong water? I have never tried anything buy perlite, I did try not adding it and it didnt do well.

[DabberDog]

I looked at vermiculite. From what I read, they seem to be complete opposites. Perlite makes for more air space. Vermiculite makes for moisture retention. Same-same for rice hulls.
My considerings:
This is soilless so vermiculite and rice hulls seem a more logical medium.
I've used perlite up to this point and have not heard of using vermiculite as a substitute.
I don't understand how perlite makes for more air space if the medium is kept moist. Does perlite dry out in wet coco?
My water is air stoned before use, so stagnant bags aren't an issue.

[golfnrl]

I've heard of using rice hulls but haven't ever seen them for sale around here. Same with vermiculite. I've used clay pebbles but they were a hassle. So it's perlite for me, I like the larger size, #3 I think.

[Rootsruler]

Vermiculite would be my choice if you are going pure coco. If you were adding peat to it then I would probably go with perlite but the vermiculite will help with water retention in the media.

[DabberDog]

I ordered straight coco instead of coco/perlite. Got to looking around for perlite for the mix and got to wondering if there is an alternative like vermiculite or the ilk.