What is horticultural vermiculite?
Horticultural vermiculite is processed with massive heat that expands it into accordion shaped pellets composed of multiple layers of thin plates. It will not rot, deteriorate, or mold and is enduring, odorless, non-toxic, and sterile.
What is perlite and vermiculite?
Perlite and vermiculite are both lightweight sand substitutes for soilless potting mixes which are often used to improve aeration and texture in potting soil and garden soil mixtures. Both are odorless, sterile, disease-free, insect-free, and seed-free. Neither medium will rot, deteriorate, or decompose.
What is vermiculite made of?
It is derived from rocks containing large crystals of the minerals biotite and iron-bearing phlogopite. As these rocks are exposed to the weather, they start to decompose, allowing water to enter and react with the various chemicals present. As the decomposition and chemical reactions proceed, vermiculite is formed.
What are the different grades of vermiculite?
The following grades are supplied in either 100litre or 1250litre bags.
- Grade 07 (0-0.5mm)
- Grade 1 (0-1mm)
- Grade 2 (2-4mm)
- Grade 3 (3-6mm)
- Grade 4 (5-8mm)
What is better vermiculite or perlite?
Both perlite and vermiculite have neutral pH levels and retain water well. Vermiculite, however, has a reputation for holding a greater amount of water than perlite does. Therefore, perlite would be a better choice for desert climates where succulents grow or for plants like rhododendrons that require less moisture.
Can you use both perlite and vermiculite?
Can you mix perlite and vermiculite? Yes, you can mix perlite and vermiculite in your seed-starting mix or potting mix, since each ingredient has different functions and benefits. Perlite acts as an aerator, helping the soil shed water. Vermiculite acts as a sponge to help the soil hold moisture.
What is perlite made out of?
expanded volcanic glass
Perlite is a lightweight granular material that’s white in colour. It looks and feels like little bits of polystyrene but is actually made from expanded volcanic glass, heated to 1000°C until it ‘pops’ (like popcorn) to many times its original size. It’s lightweight, sterile, and easy to handle, and is long-lasting.
Is vermiculite natural?
Vermiculite is a naturally occurring mineral (magnesium-aluminum-iron silicate) that, when mixed with water, expands into a worm-like shape to help the soil retain water.
Is vermiculite environmentally friendly?
Providing the vermiculite is used and handled in accordance with the suppliers’ recommendations, it can be used in a safe and environmentally friendly way. As with all other materials it isimportant to adopt normal good working practices and to comply with local and national regulatory requirements.