Rice Hulls (OMRI)

🌾 Sustainable Aeration & Drainage Amendment

Rice Hulls are a natural, biodegradable byproduct of rice milling that offer a powerful, eco-conscious way to improve your soil structure. Ideal for both houseplants and garden beds, rice hulls enhance aeration, drainage, and moisture management—while also contributing slow-release silica to promote stronger plant tissues! 

Why Choose Rice Hulls?

• OMRI Listed – Safe for organic growing

• Boosts Soil Aeration – Prevents compaction and encourages root development

• Improves Drainage – Helps water pass freely, reducing rot risk

• Adds Water-Holding Capacity – Maintains just the right moisture balance

• High in Silica – Supports plant cell strength and resilience

• Decomposes Slowly – Enriches soil over time with organic matter

• Pest-Reducing Top Dressing – Suppresses fungus gnats when used on the soil surface

• Sustainable Alternative to Perlite – Made from agricultural waste instead of mined resources

Application Rates:

In Soil Mixes

Add to your potting blend to increase porosity and oxygen flow. Most well-balanced mixes aim for ~30% aeration by volume. Example:

Aroid Mix: 30% orchid bark, 30% coco coir, 20% rice hulls, 10% charcoal, 10% worm castings.

As a Top Dressing

Sprinkle ¼–½ inch layer on the surface of your soil to:

• Discourage fungus gnats

• Minimize algae growth

• Improve evaporation from the topsoil

As Mulch in Garden Beds

Use in protected outdoor areas where wind and heavy rain won’t displace the hulls.

Measurements & Weight

• 1 cubic foot ≈ 8.74 lbs

• 1 gallon ≈ slightly over 1 lb

Use this as a guide to calculate how much you need for bulk mixes or container gardening.

Fun Fact!

Rice hulls are also used as insulation in eco-construction and biochar production—so when you add them to your mix, you’re joining a long tradition of sustainable innovation!