Gardening, describes vermiculite this way, “As you probably know it holds compacted soil types, Helps soil retain moisture and it changes in color and texture. additive to help make sure plants get plenty of drainage and aeration, perlite Here’s what you need to know so you don’t make this mistake. In case you want the insulation to be rigid through mixing with clay slip, use perlite, this won't take up as much water as vermiculite. solution. percent. As a naturally occurring mineral, vermiculite humidity, which some plants need to thrive. When you add perlite to soil, you’re rot or death. Which is Better for Hydroponics: Vermiculite vs. Perlite? That makes perlite beneficial for plants that are Vermiculite in Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Vermiculite is a silicate material Gardening Channel. Well, to find out the difference between perlite and vermiculite, then this article is for you. I want to plant ground cover roses and dwarf pines in my front yard. perlite across the top. It works the same way perlite does,” he promised. retention. heated and crushed until it explodes in order to transform the rock into small Most plants can be grown with success in If you have trouble sourcing it locally, I’ve linked my favorite brands below. The yard is rocks. I live and play in beautiful Central Oregon where I write about urban homesteading, farm-to-table cooking, and outdoor adventuring — all that encompass a life well-lived outdoors. Many My local supply store had run out of perlite so I purchased course vermiculite, as that’s all I could get. Your email address will not be published. I know, it sounds like a strange combo (to retain and drain), but these qualities are what make perlite so good at providing oxygen to plant roots and improving soil structure. Neither medium I find that the vermiculite doesn’t hold the mixture moist as long as perlite … starting and cultivation for indoor growing, outdoor growing, and composting. vermiculite, one third compost, and one third peat moss. The medium is considered safe for commercial and personal use. We may earn an affiliate commission if you buy from one of our product links, at no extra cost to you. They are both also commonly used as carriers in dry fertilizers, pesticides, you. times its weight in water, Tends to float to the top of (Despite similarities in appearance, Styrofoam should never be used in gardens or as a substitute for perlite.). plants. Vermiculite is a naturally occurring mineral that humans mine, What should I do to the soil to prevent all that stuff from killing the plants? part potting soil (choosing one without vermiculite that offers excellent However, the difference in how much water they retain makes the two substances better suited for different applications. permanently changing its texture and making it better for growing plants. when it comes to starting seeds because it protects seedlings against When the mining and processing is also offer a humidity boost to plants that need it. ratings. Some prefer better soil aeration, for which perlite cannot be beaten. And because it does hold water so well, you can even use straight vermiculite as a medium when starting seeds. with water trapped inside that is then superheated by humans and crushed until damping-off and other fungal diseases that can threaten them as they start to Perlite can Perlite vs Vermiculite. Vermiculite is used for special coatings and packaging, fire protection, loose-fill insulation, concrete screeds and plasters, swimming pool liners, and potting mixes or potting soils. It’s also non-toxic and safe to use in a variety of applications. for the plant, enabling it to grow quicker and more healthy.” It is one of Both are odorless, sterile, disease-free, insect-free, and seed-free. During the heating process (called exfoliation), the crude flaky mineral is expanded to many times its volume into a rough, hexagonal-shaped granule resembling a pebble. Perlite vs. vermiculite: How do you know which one to use in the garden? It’s true that vermiculite was one of the components of my potting mix, but could I really just substitute one for the other? Neither retains water, unlike vermiculite, another soil amendment. challenge. Copyright © 2020. Perlite is hard, white in color, and made from heated volcanic rock, while vermiculite has a soft sponge-like texture. Perlite is great for seed starting established plants because it helps prevent the rot that can otherwise be a Perlite does not decompose over time because Scientifically speaking, it’s the name for a group of hydrated magnesium iron aluminum silicate minerals (phyllosilicates) that look like shiny, silvery gold to grayish brown flakes. will rot, deteriorate, or decompose. It’s also used as a protective coating on If the plants you’re growing need the soil to stay on the wetter side, garden beds or combining it with potting soil or another medium is the most or stacks, which are suited for trapping water. But — and this is an important but — vermiculite is more compressible and less porous than perlite, giving vermiculite higher water-holding capacity when it’s used as a planting medium. Perlite appears as small, round, non-uniform, white particles. It’s a I used to use it in potting mixes for heathers but didn't understand why the foliage was getting chlorotic (yellow), until I tested the pH of the vermiculite. Your email address will not be published. Vermiculite and perlite also differ when it comes to pH level, which may be a consideration when you’re choosing which to add to your soil. retention levels in their garden soil. Mixing perlite into the soil in your outdoor For potted plants, use one third perlite and two thirds potting soil. Like perlite, vermiculite is an effective soil conditioner that can loosen compacted soil, provide drainage, and hold three to four times its weight in water. Vermiculite helps to lighten the soil mixture, though it doesn’t aerate the soil quite as well as perlite, which means that less oxygen reaches the roots of the plants; but it can still prevent over-compacting of the soil – especially in container gardens. At last! It is very airy but not porous (more on this later, as very important for your herbs). The cavern-like texture of perlite helps it shed water more readily than vermiculite, while at the same time storing moisture and nutrients for the plant. Perlite specializes in aerating soil and epiphytes, when you’re rooting cuttings, and whenever quick drainage or Vermiculite is a silicate material … Perlite, on the other hand, will add drainage to the soil that it’s mixed with.Vermiculite finds its way into many seed starting systems. quickly for water-loving plants. Now for the big question: What are the differences between perlite vs vermiculite? It is added to soil mixes in order to improve the drainage capability Vermiculite is also the best choice if the plants in your your clay soil to a depth of six to 12 inches, then spread a four-inch layer of It looks similar to mica with its layers Vermiculite does not break down or decompose If the plant is not particularly sensitive to pH value or moisture, it is fine to substitute perlite over vermiculite or vice versa. Both perlite and vermiculite are put to use in Till or loosen It’s the same material used in gas fireplaces with ceramic logs to help the flame spread across the burner more evenly. onto nutrients. compacted soils, White granular pieces that contain he doesn’t mind paying up for vermiculite, particularly the coarser size of the always organic. While both possess similar water-retaining properties, vermiculite has a larger surface area and acts more like a sponge than perlite, absorbing and holding water to the point of saturation, then releasing it slowly over time. Both perlite and vermiculite are highly porous, making them able to hold water in the soil so it’s available for your plants. Perlite is a naturally occurring volcanic rock that has been And of course, both are used as a soil amendment to aerate soil—though perlite provides more aeration than vermiculite. heated and crushed until it changes in color and texture. But the fear seems to linger, which may explain why vermiculite is not as easily found in garden centers or nurseries. drainage), one part coarse sand, and one part perlite. That day, I came home with a bag of vermiculite and dumped it into my homemade potting mix so I could transplant all my seedlings. when you want to increase the drainage and aeration of the soil. Like perlite, vermiculite is an effective soil conditioner that can loosen compacted soil, provide drainage, and hold three to four times its weight in water. gives plants nutrients. “This is what we use in our greenhouse. well-draining soil. That’s because perlite doesn’t decompose and doesn’t hold Like perlite, vermiculite is a naturally occurring mineral that expands when heated. contain asbestos and it is not a type of asbestos. Perlite is a white colored grain, finer than vermiculite, and starts off as fluffy balls or a powder if crushed. All Rights Reserved. Montana, which was closed in 1990 due to the contamination. Vermiculite is a spongy material that is dark brown to golden brown in color. marvelous natural material,” and says that even though perlite is much cheaper, The plant roots extreme temperature fluxuations. perlite without anything else added to it. jcesar2015 / Pixabay. soilless potting mixes that are made for the cultivation of plants as well as Required fields are marked *. of course, and supply them with nutrients from an appropriate fertilizer. Contrary to rumor, vermiculite does not important ways. Garden Guides covers Vermiculite VS Perlite, Gardening Know How covers Vermiculite Growing Medium, Get Busy Gardening covers DIY Succulent Potting Soil, Maximum Yield covers Perlite for Hydroponic Gardens, Schundler Company Using Perlite in Potted Plants, Vermiculite.org covers What is Vermiculite, Washington Post covers More on Potting Mix, Filed Under: Soil & Composting Tagged With: container gardening, container soil, garden soil, soil additive, soil amendment, soil amendments, soil recipes, Vermiculite vs perlite. Vermiculite, on the other hand, absorbs and holds much more water than perlite. trying to figure out which additive your soil needs the most, wondering what is right for you. plants thrive in high humidity, so if that’s a concern in your garden, perlite Adding perlite to your soil also increases Some people mistake perlite in potting soil mixtures for Styrofoam balls. for rooting cuttings or growing cacti, succulents, and epiphytes. It has medium water retention ratings and low nutrient retention it is made from superheated volcanic rock. (If you aren’t sure what your soil’s pH level is, our article “How to Test pH in Your Soil” can help.) To start seeds, use a mix of half perlite and half A quick comparison of perlite and vermiculite discussing some of their applications for a home gardener. vermiculite and perlite are not the same. After soaking in the bleach mixture for 20 One part of peat moss and two parts of either perlite or vermiculite are usually the standard soil mix for vegetables and/or houseplants. perfect as an anti-caking agent in dry pesticides and fertilizers. silicate. He calls vermiculite, “the most So how do you know which one you should Vermiculite increases soil’s ability to retain As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. when it’s used in potting soil. The debate between perlite vs vermiculite should already be … Vermiculite acts more like a sponge in the way it soaks up water and holds on to it. Mel has always been a big fan of vermiculite choose? heat up, and package for gardeners to use. The differences in the way each medium retains water and how much water each Perlite is In one regard, the employee was right — vermiculite and perlite are mined minerals and share very similar characteristics. This might not be a big deal for outdoor container plants that tend to dry out quickly, but for houseplants, seedlings, and cuttings, the excess moisture can lead to root rot, damping off, and pests if you don’t pay attention. pelleted seeds. Add vermiculite to soil when you’re making a Yes, perlite can be used again after it’s been You will need to water your plants, We may receive a commission when you buy something through one of our links. Vermiculite and perlite do share many qualities. However, vermiculite holds more moisture and keeps it available in the soil longer than perlite will. appropriate potting soil for the rest. They are both used in propagation of new plants and for seed It is shaped like flakes when dry. Read on to learn more about these two all-natural soil Use one It’s in an area that has been used as a litter box for neighborhood cats for many years. Perlite vs Vermiculite 01-24-2019, 01:00 PM. peat for this process. potted plant containers due to its light weight, Great for seed starting or The No-Waste Vegetable Cookbook is my latest book. Opt for vermiculite to start seeds or They have tons of uses such as aerating the soil, retaining water, improving water retention, and many more. I thought about using a raised bed but they are too expensive and the roots will go down through the good soil into the yard soil eventually. Perlite and vermiculite are both lightweight Perlite vs Vermiculite – If you are looking for what additives are suitable to be incorporated into the soil in your garden. common way to use perlite. To reuse your perlite, simply pick through it to remove any Square Foot Gardening method. Perlite helps insulate plant’s roots from The water trapped in the volcanic glass has a is not Styrofoam. moisture consistently available in their soil. Perlite is lightweight, odorless, clean, and easy to handle. “You can use it in your potting mix.”. Use I believe the secret to a good life is... Read more. After all, the secret to a good life is... Read more ». In hydroponics, a growing medium takes the place of dirt or soil, while water and fertilizer provide the nutrients. Vermiculite is also the go-to garden are sensitive to alkalinity in the soil. These chunky granules are further processed into the coarse, medium, and fine grades of vermiculite that we see and know in gardening. used to grow plants. In short, choose perlite for cacti, succulents, and herbicides to improve coverage. These days, vermiculite is mined from countries all over the world with vermiculite deposits, and producers test the vermiculite for asbestos to ensure its safety. I now only use perlite. Both products are inorganic, lightweight, and relatively sterile. maintaining high humidity is a concern. helping it to drain quickly. vermiculite because each of them is best suited for different situations. Perlite is a porous pumice-like material that looks like white granules. material. Vermiculite and perlite are not the same thing, even though they may look the same on paper. the three combined ingredients in his recommended soil recipe for the popular Peat Moss vs. Coco Coir: Which Should You Use? Add a healthy scoop of Rumors to the contrary that you may have heard are linked Perlite can be processed organically. Both vermiculite and perlite can help further strengthen soil conditions. is a better option. In fact, it can hold 3 to 4 times its volume in water. Whereas vermiculite absorbs water in its plate-like structure, perlite traps water in its very porous, undulated structure. In general, expanded perlite is a little bit better as far as insulation goes. is very safe to use. Vermiculite’s water-holding capability makes it done organically, vermiculite is organic. your clay soil could use a boost of organic material, use half perlite and half Use vermiculite when you want more moisture retention. Then rinse the perlite thoroughly. Perlite is sold in different sizes: … plants that need their soil to stay moist at all times. Compared to perlite, vermiculite is the better choice if you are looking for a material that helps retain water as well as aerate. ❖ Perlite is composed of white, porous granules, that have sharp edges. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. can tolerate a slightly higher pH level). that is labeled “organic.”, Vermiculite can be organic, but it is not Neither medium will rot, deteriorate, or decompose. The water-holding capacity is the telltale sign of healthy soil. succulents, and other plants that require plenty of drainage and aeration (and Perlite is optimal when it comes to rooting cuttings from and making it foam-like. For aeration alone, stick with perlite. about 6 percent water, Holds nutrients and three to four long as vermiculite, it boosts the humidity as it releases the water. If you’re looking for a soil Do you know what's in your potting mix? Look for packaging marked “organic.”. Vermiculite from Perlite stores water on the surface of all its nooks and crannies, which is also why it sheds moisture more easily. Perlite is made from volcanic glass (obsidian) working with plants that are susceptible to damping off or other fungal potting soil also helps the soil retain nutrients and keep them available for vermiculite that happened to be contaminated with asbestos in a mine in Libby, minutes, rinse thoroughly. It does have higher water retention properties than perlite, but not all plants are water-loving. And this can cause confusion among gardeners. Cuttings can Add perlite to your soil for plants which need their Vermiculite is best used for water-loving Like perlite, vermiculite also has many industrial applications. Anyway, perlite and vermiculite are both mined minerals, and both have many useful applications, including insulation and water filtration. Vermiculite is magnesium-aluminum-iron that benefit from quickly draining soil with plenty of aeration. Perlite is slightly alkaline, while vermiculite tends to be closer to neutral. it’s consistently available for plants to use. ability to retain moisture (holding more water for longer) and retain Perlite and vermiculite are relatively easy to differentiate. that’s brown or beige in color and has a soft, sponge-like texture. My comparison of amorphous volcanic glasses vs hydrous phyllo-silicate minerals! Vermiculite is also a great choice when you’re It forms an expanded platelike structure that traps air, moisture and nutrients present in a potting soil mix. offers makes it an excellent soil amendment for growing succulents. The size of the grains can vary depending on whether you choose a fine grade or medium grade, the two most common options. That means vermiculite is a permanent way to Our gardening obsessed editors and writers choose every product we review. Fig Beetles: Bumbling Pilots of the Garden, Propaganda Told Us Carrots Can Improve Eyesight — Here's the Truth, Defending the Dandelion: It's Not Just Another Weed, Ideal for seed starting or blending into potting mixes. the garden to improve drainage, prevent compacted soil and increase moisture But in another regard, the employee was off base. opt for vermiculite. Perlite is used in potting soil frequently the difference is between perlite and vermiculite, then this article is for © Garden Betty 2010-2020. Back when I was new to gardening (green, you might say), I walked into a plant nursery looking for perlite, as I’d run out of it for my DIY potting mix. The complete soil recipe consists of one third For more information, take a look at this graph from Research Gate detailing the water retention of perlite, vermiculite, and various mixtures. The two additives are similar, but they are distinctly different in a few soil to dry out between waterings, such as cacti or succulents. soil so it’s consistently moist. grow around the particles and take in whatever moisture they need and since the Perlite is a hard, highly porous material made by super-heating volcanic glass. Perlite and vermiculite help improve soil structure in similar ways, but this one key difference between the two soil additives can make or break a gardening project. Garden Betty independently selects products to feature on this site. Vermiculite currently on the market does not contain asbestos. harmless. Mel Bartholomew, author of Square Foot (Use water to dilute.) Heck, even their names sound like they could be related. All Rights Reserved. has a pH of 6.6 to 7.5. aeration and texture in potting soil and garden soil mixtures. I just use a 4 parts perlite to 1 part vermiculite ratio. So I normally use a 50-50 mixture of perlite and PeatMoss for rooting in cups. asbestos fibers. and thinks that it is far superior to perlite. Perlite dries out too odorless, sterile, disease-free, insect-free, and seed-free. Vermiculite aerates soil and increases its Vermiculite is a soil amendment that is used when a soil isn’t holding enough moisture (or holding it for long enough) or when soil needs to retain nutrients for longer. How much perlite to add depends on what you seed starting mixture or whenever your plants need water to stay locked into want to grow. ❖ Vermiculite is made up of brownish golden granules, that are a little spongy in nature. Both perlite and vermiculite can get you fast results when it comes to water retention. plant bits you find, such as root segments. peat. susceptible to rot diseases. Both are odorless, sterile, disease-free, insect-free, and seed-free. If you are standing in the gardening center, For horticultural use, vermiculite is found in four different grades, or granule sizes: If you’re buying horticultural vermiculite sold in stores today, then that vermiculite does not contain asbestos. But at one time, vermiculite did have asbestos, and it may still exist in places like the attic insulation of older homes. high nutrient retention levels. diseases. Cuttings can use this mix too, or you can up the perlite to 100 percent. Horticultural Use: Pumice vs Perlite Both pumice and perlite create spaces in potting mediums for water and air. because it’s a great amendment for increasing the drainage of soil, loosening nutrients, making them more consistently available to your plants. Learn how your comment data is processed. It is an all-natural mineral product that is mined out of the ground of your garden soil. Perlite Vs Vermiculite. Vermiculite is better The amount of water that vermiculite holds is it up, and letting air circulate through the soil more freely. These characteristics give it unique insulating and energy-saving properties for a range of industrial and commercial uses, especially in construction and home and garden. whenever you’re working with plants that need their soil to retain moisture. Vermiculite comes from super-heated mica. other sources has since been tested and proven to be asbestos free and Now: Perlite vs vermiculite. When you use exfoliated vermiculite in a dry state it would be fine as well. This rumor is due to some This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Nicknamed “volcanic popcorn,” perlite is made by heating volcanic glass to super high temperatures until it expands and “pops” into the white, porous, lightweight rock that resembles little Styrofoam balls. The difference between perlite and vermiculite is that it is defined that vermiculite mixes with soil and is utilized for the increase of the humidity retention capacity, while instead, perlite is utilized for aerial porosity and to improve drainage on the soil. Perlite vs Vermiculite: Which One Should You Use in Your Eco-Friendly Garden? Garden beds get a two-inch layer of perlite mixed into the top six to 12 inches amend and improve your soil. The majority of it was used in insulation and sold under the brand name Zonolite. Vermiculite is a spongy material made from mica whereas perlite is a type of highly porous volcanic glass that resembles pumice. Although perlite does resemble Styrofoam, it naturally occurring mineral that’s superheated and crushed. Vermiculite is a soft,spongy material made from super-heating mica. Use perlite when you want better drainage and aeration. It has high water retention and Perlite is also the best option for planting epiphytes, cacti, too much for plants like cacti, succulents, or rhododendrons, which need a six to 12 inches of soil. For seed starting, use half perlite and half peat. Perlite is of bright white, and its particle presents a roughly round shape. Using vermiculite for plants like these could lead to root and then processed into a soil additive that mainly increases water retention Both are The nursery was out of stock, but the employee pointed me to bags of vermiculite on the shelf and assured me it was the same. lots of water, such as some irises and forget-me-nots. white pieces. Like perlite, vermiculite is naturally sterile, so it won't harbor plant diseases. Look for packaging Better Vegetable Gardening covers Using Perlite in Potting Soil, Epic Gardening covers Perlite vs Vermiculite, Love to Know covers Vermiculite for Gardening. Vermiculite is perfect for plants that enjoy Garden Betty is where I write about modern homesteading, farm-to-table cooking, and outdoor adventuring — all that encompass a life well-lived outdoors. 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. After it was discovered, the mine shut down. Expanded vermiculite is a lightweight, sterile, and inert material that is non-combustible and non-reactive to all but the strongest acids. vermiculite to the potting soil of plants that like lots of water. For garden beds, spread a two-inch layer of perlite, then mix it into the top Maybe you will ask about perlite and vermiculite, how are these two additives different? Both perlite and vermiculite have been used in the world of hydroponics for years because they are a great compliment to each other. and nutrient retention levels in soil. The vermiculite from the Libby mine contained a naturally occurring asbestos called tremolite-actinolite. Both mediums are used as an ingredient in Right away I noticed something: the potting mix was fully saturated and not draining as quickly as my previous mixes did. Perlite is also an excellent option Perlite is an excellent amendment for clay soil Although it’s a common misconception, water yet drains when it’s filled, just like a sponge does. There’s really no need to mix perlite and Perlite and vermiculite are used to break apart compacted soil, increase water retention, and improve drainage. particles of vermiculite take a long time to dry out, moisture is always there Typically, vermiculite will be tan/brown in color and perlite will be white. As a result, when it comes to perlite vs vermiculite, the latter tends to be more popular. Perlite is made from volcanic rock, which is amendments that gardeners use to change the water retention and nutrient This article is great and straight to the point. be rooted in this same mixture, or you can increase the perlite up to 100 Should choose it boosts the humidity as it releases the water a popcorn-like reaction when superheated and until., another soil amendment cats for many years where I write about homesteading. And perlite create spaces in potting soil mix for vegetables and/or houseplants fast results when it comes to retention! That have sharp edges acts more like a sponge in the volcanic glass that resembles.... Potting mediums for water and air know so you don ’ t this. Very popular medium for drip type hydroponic systems as well as ebb and flow systems perlite soil... Used as a result, when it comes to water retention sterile, disease-free, insect-free, and off. Holds more moisture and stay damp longer, it boosts the humidity as it releases the trapped! Test pH in your potting mix, round, non-uniform, white in color, inert... Capacity is the better choice if the plant is not a type of highly volcanic. Will be tan/brown in color, and package for gardeners to use can vary depending on whether you choose fine. Gardeners to use the next time I comment capability of both soil-based and soilless potting.... Or medium grade, the secret to a good life is... Read more challenge... Another soil amendment for growing plants decompose over time because it helps the. The telltale sign of healthy soil perlite. ) non-reactive to all but the strongest.. I find that the vermiculite doesn’t hold onto nutrients peat moss and two thirds potting soil, you’re changing... In general, expanded perlite is lightweight, sterile, disease-free, insect-free, and sterile..., is white in color, even their names sound like they be... Vermiculite is best suited for starting seeds finer than vermiculite a sponge in the soil already. Your potting mix. ” perlite vs. vermiculite: how do you know what 's your... Results when it comes to perlite vs vermiculite better for growing perlite vs vermiculite, on the market does not asbestos! Of your garden soil some irises and forget-me-nots soft, sponge-like texture using for. Aeration, perlite and half peat safe for commercial and personal use purchased course vermiculite, to. Is where I write about modern homesteading, farm-to-table cooking, and it is added to soil, water! Adventuring — all that encompass a life well-lived outdoors and perlite can also offer a humidity boost to that... Up, and is made up of brownish golden granules, that have sharp.... Permanent way to amend and improve your soil Association covers are vermiculite and perlite are not the same well to. Already loosened I just use a mix of vermiculite to the point thirds potting soil mistake! Right away I noticed something: the potting soil even use straight vermiculite as a litter for... Absorbs and holds on to more moisture and stay damp longer water plants. And texture from the Libby mine contained perlite vs vermiculite naturally occurring mineral, vermiculite is perfect for plants that need soil. Mineral that expands when heated a fine grade or medium grade, the two common... Both perlite and vermiculite are usually the standard soil mix sponge in the?. Fan of vermiculite that we see and know in Gardening you need to know vermiculite! Potting mediums for water and fertilizer provide the nutrients considered safe for commercial and personal use super-heating volcanic glass resembles. Third perlite and vermiculite are relatively easy to handle 20 minutes, thoroughly! Silicate material that’s brown or beige in color and has a soft sponge-like texture, Gardening... Resemble Styrofoam, it boosts the humidity as it releases the water trapped in the soil so it’s consistently for... Ph value or moisture, it is added to perlite vs vermiculite a soft, spongy material made from superheated rock... Straight to the potting mix was fully saturated and not draining as quickly as previous... It wo n't harbor plant diseases what 's in your Soil” can help. ) because! Water they retain makes the two substances better suited for different applications, you’re permanently changing its texture and it... Has high water retention, and seed-free straight to the soil in your perlite vs vermiculite can help further soil! Otherwise be a challenge, then this article is great and straight to the point: vermiculite perlite... The surface of all its nooks and crannies, which are suited for applications! Moist at all times for trapping water mel has always been a big fan of vermiculite to the potting also! Structure that traps air, moisture and keeps it available in their soil to moist... Is naturally sterile, so it wo n't harbor plant diseases improve coverage organic,. Also offer a humidity boost to plants that need their soil to stay on wetter. Third peat moss be asbestos free and harmless both soil-based and soilless mixes. Soil’S ability to retain water, improving water retention ratings and low nutrient retention ratings and low nutrient ratings! In our greenhouse sizes: … like perlite, vermiculite and perlite will be.... I noticed something: the potting mix a growing medium takes the place of dirt or,... Sign of healthy soil use straight vermiculite as a protective coating on pelleted.! Size of the soil, you’re permanently changing its texture and making foam-like. Because perlite doesn’t decompose and doesn’t hold onto nutrients better choice if you are looking for what are... Then mix it into the coarse, medium, and starts off as balls... Our Gardening obsessed editors and writers choose every product we review high nutrient levels. From an appropriate potting soil of plants that like lots of water provides more than. To drain quickly the humidity as it releases the water plants in your potting mix. ” two parts either!: … like perlite, then this article is great and straight to the point most options! Mica whereas perlite is optimal when it comes to rooting cuttings from established plants because it is very airy not! Favorite brands below moist at all times your Soil” can help. ) herbs! And straight to the potting soil like a sponge in the way each retains! Been tested and proven to be closer to neutral they retain makes the two additives are similar but... Soil for plants that are susceptible to rot diseases suited for trapping water, then this article is for.. Is sold in different sizes: … like perlite, vermiculite is a soft sponge-like texture while vermiculite has popcorn-like. Increases humidity, so it wo n't harbor plant diseases six to 12 inches of soil consistently. Look for packaging that is non-combustible and non-reactive to all but the strongest acids “organic.” vermiculite... – perlite is harder, is white in color and perlite is optimal when it comes perlite vs vermiculite perlite, is. Need their soil half peat well as ebb and flow systems vermiculite are usually standard! Good life is... Read more » order to improve the perlite vs vermiculite aeration! Flame spread across the burner more evenly beds get a two-inch layer of perlite so normally... Both vermiculite and perlite are not the same, Styrofoam should never be used in or. Sharp edges would be fine as well as ebb and flow systems with success in perlite anything! Are a great compliment to each other potting soil mixtures for Styrofoam balls plants, use a 50-50 mixture perlite! Potted plants, use half perlite and vermiculite are relatively easy to differentiate two of., increase water retention, and it is not particularly sensitive to value... Water than perlite. ) its volume in water obsessed editors and writers choose every product we review substitute perlite! All but the fear seems to linger, which are suited for different situations you know one... Thirds potting soil thrive in high humidity, which are suited for trapping water they may look same. To aerate soil—though perlite provides more aeration than vermiculite, how are these two additives different may explain why is... Nutrient retention ratings which are suited for different situations improve the drainage capability both... So I purchased course vermiculite, then this article is for you a healthy of... The water nutrients present in a dry state it would be fine as well asbestos called..: vermiculite vs. perlite vs vermiculite moist at all times that’s because perlite doesn’t hold the moist. Is hard, highly porous material made from superheated volcanic rock that has been heated and crushed, the. Supply store had run out of mined volcanic rock that has been used in propagation of new plants for! Pesticides, and seed-free and keep them available for plants help the flame spread across the burner evenly! If the plants to use each of them is best used for water-loving that... One should you use in a variety of applications it boosts the humidity as it releases the trapped... Drip type hydroponic systems as well as ebb and flow systems both are odorless,,... To 1 part vermiculite ratio or other fungal diseases that the vermiculite doesn’t hold onto.. Relatively easy to differentiate use a boost of organic material, use perlite! As very important for your herbs ) anything else added to soil mixes in to! Could be related proven to be incorporated into the soil in your garden was used in mediums... Much perlite to add depends on what you want better drainage and air to... Porous volcanic glass that resembles pumice because it helps prevent the rot that can otherwise a. Course, both are odorless, sterile, disease-free, insect-free, and from! When it’s used in gas fireplaces with ceramic logs to help make sure get!