What is Vermiculite

Introduction

Vermiculite is a mineral that expands at high temperatures. It is a silicate. When vermiculite loses water and expands due to heat, it becomes curved, which is very similar to the shape of leeches, hence the name vermiculite.

Element

Vermiculite is a layered silicate mineral rich in magnesium and iron. The appearance of vermiculite ore is similar to mica, and it is mainly formed by hydrothermal alteration or weathering of black (gold) mica.

Features

advantage

First, vermiculite can be used as a soil conditioner, and its ion exchange capacity can effectively improve soil structure;

Second, vermiculite has strong water retention and water conductivity, which can improve the air permeability and water retention of the soil, neutralize acidic soil, and facilitate the growth of plant roots;

Third, vermiculite can act as a buffer, allowing the fertilizer to be released slowly in the medium;

Fourth, vermiculite can also provide elements such as magnesium and iron to crops.

shortcoming

Vermiculite is brittle and can easily make the medium too dense and lose its air permeability and water retention.

Applicable plants

Vermiculite can be used in flower, vegetable, fruit cultivation, seedling cultivation, etc. In addition to being used as potting soil and conditioner, it can also be used for soilless cultivation.