Brunnings Pumice+ 2.5L – Natural Gnat Barrier and Soil Conditioner for Indoor Plants, Cacti and Succulents

Brunnings Pumice+ 2.5L Natural Gnat Barrier and Soil Conditioner

Brunnings Pumice+ is a 100% natural volcanic pumice that does two jobs for potted plants. Spread on top of the potting mix, it forms a physical barrier against fungus gnats and helps break their breeding cycle. Mixed into potting mix, it improves air porosity and drainage, making it ideal for cacti, succulents, ferns and other plants that do not like wet roots. This is the 2.5 litre pack.

A Physical Barrier Against Fungus Gnats

Fungus gnats are the small dark flies that hover around indoor plants. They lay their eggs in the top layer of damp potting mix, and the larvae feed on organic matter and fine roots. A layer of pumice over the mix makes the surface dry, rough and hard for adult gnats to reach, so they struggle to lay eggs and the life cycle is broken. Because it is a physical barrier rather than a spray, there are no chemicals to use around your home.

Better Drainage and Air for Roots

Pumice is a light, porous volcanic rock. Mixed through potting mix, it opens up the structure so water drains through freely and air can reach the roots, while the pores in each piece hold some moisture. That balance is what cacti and succulents need to avoid rot, and it also helps fussy indoor plants that suffer when their mix stays soggy. Unlike perlite, pumice is heavier, so it does not float to the top of the pot when you water.

Propagation and Potting Mixes

Pumice is also popular in propagation and custom potting blends. Adding it to a cutting mix keeps the mix open and well drained, which helps cuttings root without rotting. Many growers blend their own mix for cacti, succulents and aroids using pumice as the main drainage ingredient.

Key Features and Benefits

• 100% natural volcanic pumice
• Acts as a physical barrier against fungus gnats when used as a top layer
• Helps break the fungus gnat breeding cycle without chemicals
• Improves air porosity and drainage in potting mix
• Holds some moisture in its pores for roots
• Ideal for cacti, succulents, ferns and other water-sensitive plants
• Heavier than perlite, so it stays put when watering
• Handy 2.5L pack for indoor and container gardening

Product Details

• Brand: Brunnings
• Product: Pumice+
• Pack size: 2.5L
• Material: 100% natural volcanic pumice
• Uses: Fungus gnat barrier, soil conditioner, propagation mixes
• Suitable for: Indoor plants, cacti, succulents, ferns and potted plants

How to Use Pumice+

As a gnat barrier, cover the whole surface of the potting mix with an even layer, about 3cm deep, leaving no bare patches around the edges or stem. Water gently to settle it, and top it up as it settles over time. If gnats are already present, let the top of the mix dry out first and use yellow sticky traps to catch the adults while the barrier stops new eggs being laid. As a soil conditioner, mix Pumice+ through your potting mix before planting, using more for cacti and succulents and less for leafy indoor plants that like a little more moisture. Pumice can be dusty, so wear gloves and a dust mask when handling, and reseal the bag after use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Brunnings Pumice+ used for?
It is used as a top layer on potting mix to create a physical barrier against fungus gnats, and as a soil conditioner mixed into potting mix to improve drainage and air flow to roots.

Is Brunnings Pumice+ good for cacti and succulents?
Yes. Cacti and succulents need fast drainage, and pumice keeps the mix open and airy so roots do not sit in water, which helps prevent rot.

How does pumice improve drainage and soil aeration for plants?
Pumice is a porous volcanic rock. Its pieces create gaps in the mix that let water drain and air move through, while the tiny pores in each piece hold a little moisture for the roots.

How deep should the gnat barrier layer be?
Aim for an even layer about 3cm deep that covers the whole surface of the potting mix. Top it up as it settles.

Can I water through the pumice layer?
Yes. Water passes through the pumice to the mix below. Water gently so the layer is not washed aside.

Where can I buy Brunnings Pumice+ in Sydney?
Brunnings Pumice+ 2.5L is available from BPG Supplies, with local pickup from our store in Bonnyrigg in Sydney's south-west and delivery across Australia.