Vermiculite For Gardening Use

Plants require nutrition, water and soil aeration to grow and thrive. But sometimes, the garden soil is lacking in these factors and one of the solution is adding vermiculite to improve the soil structure. So what is vermiculite? What is the benefits of vermiculite for gardening use?

What is Vermiculite?

Vermiculite is naturally occurring mineral (aluminum-iron-magnesium-silicates) that is mined and processed into a puffy, lightweight granule which look like mica and can be mixed easily with other mediums. Vermiculite will not rot, deteriorate, or mold. It is enduring, odorless, sterile and non-toxic. It is inexpensive and easy to get.

Vermiculite for gardening is usually can be found in potting soil or you may be purchased by itself in four different sizes. But make sure you buy bags of horticultural-grade vermiculite and follow the package directions. Smallest size of vermiculite is usually used for germinating seeds while the largest one for improving soil aeration. 

Vermiculite For Gardening Use

Usually, vermiculite is added to the garden soil or vermiculite in potting soil to increase nutrient and water retention and also aerates the soil so it can make plants healthier and more robust. Perlite may also be used in potting soils but vermiculite is better for water retention. Although vermiculite is less aerating than perlite but vermiculite is the amendment of choice for water-loving plants.

Below are the benefits of vermiculite for gardening use:

• Improves aeration: 

Vermiculite loosens the soil so the roots can more easily reach down and also grow through the soil.

• Enhances drainage: 

Vermiculite can soaks up water like a sponge and holds that water until the soil starts to dry out then releases it. This is good for water-loving plants but not so good for plants that like dryer soil.

• Add permanent soil conditioner: 

Vermiculite does not break down into the soil, unlike compost, which eventually breaks down into the soil. Yes you are right that compost can add vital nutrients but if you need to improve drainage permanently then adding vermiculite is a great solution. This can accelerate the growth young root systems.

• Slightly raises pH: 

In general, vermiculite has a neutral pH 7.0 but it depend upon the source from around the globe and its reaction is alkaline. This is a plus point for acidic soils.

• Makes other minerals available: 

Vermiculite naturally reacts with soil compounds and makes other minerals available such as magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca) and potassium (K).

• As growing medium for root cutting: 

Just water the medium grade vermiculite thoroughly and insert the plant cutting up to the node.

• For seed germination: 

Vermiculite will allow seeds to germinate more rapidly, it can be used alone or mixed with soil. If vermiculite is used without soil, just feed the seedlings a weak fertilizer solution (1 tablespoon of fertilizer in 1 gallon of water) once the first leaves appear. Since vermiculite is sterile then damping off is thwarted and the seedlings are easily removed without damage to the roots.

• Eliminates packed down soil in flower or houseplant pot / container: 

Just mix vermiculite and soil, peat or compost, this will allow excellent aeration and root spread and also reduce watering frequency.

• For plant transplantation: 

Just dig a hole which is 6 inches larger than the plants roots. Fill in the hole with a mix of vermiculite and the removed topsoil. This allows for root spread, provides moisture control and protects the roots from drying out due to sun or wind. You may use 3 inches of vermiculite as mulch around shrubs and other garden plants such as tomatoes, roses and dahlias.

• Will absorb any excess moisture: 

Pour the vermiculite around the bulbs or root crops in a container. This will prevent rot or mildew while protecting the plant from temperature fluxes.

• Improve germination in newly seeded lawn: 

You can mix 3 cubic feet of vermiculite into 100 square feet seed then just cover the entire area with ¼ inch of vermiculite. After that water in with a fine spray. This will hasten germination and increase the number of seeds that germinate while maintaining moisture and protecting from drying and heat.

• Arranging flowers: 

Just fill the container with vermiculite and thoroughly saturate with water. Pour off the excess of water and arrange the flowers. This will eliminates spills and the need to change the water and keeps blooms fresh for day. Make sure to use horticultural vermiculite and not that sold for house insulation since it is treated to repel water!

Is Vermiculite Safe?

Many people who used vermiculite for gardening may be worried a little bit about recent health scares and its safety. Some vermiculite may contain trace amounts of asbestos that can creates tiny fibers which is floating in the air and can damage the lungs when inhaled. But don’t worry, most experts said that the most vermiculite for gardening use was considered safe. You can lower any potential risk with wearing a mask, dampening down the vermiculite before mixing it into soil and working with it outdoors.

photo credit: www.hydroculture.co.uk