Can Lump Charcoal be Used Instead of Perlite to Ensure Excellent Drainage?

Lump charcoal helps with pH fluctuations and is a good carbon source that creates a surface for beneficial microorganisms to live on. However, it doesn’t provide any nutrients, soil porosity or gas exchange in the soil. Perlite, on the other hand, provides excellent gas exchange by aerating the soil profile to reduce compaction. Also, perlite increases plant vigor by delivering excellent drainage with increased oxygen uptake.