Vermiculite

Is a substrate that improves the water uptake and water distribution when it is mixed in peaty substrates

Vermiculite is a rock with a laminar structure with mineral water between the layers. At high temperatures this water vaporises, causing the material to expand. The layers are pressed apart, resulting in a harmonica structure.

Among others the Netherlands.

In horticulture vermiculite is used as pure substrate in propagation of lilies. Vermiculite is used as litter in raising vegetable plants. In sowing media, vermiculite is used as raw material. Vermiculite is light and porous. The material contains few closed pores, which makes it very airy. Vermiculite quickly absorbs water and will possibly improve at mixing in peaty substrates the water uptake and –distribution. The pH neutral vermiculite has a certain buffer capacity of nutrient elements which is naturally mainly occupied by magnesium and potassium. Those will partly be released on the first fertilizer application.

The production of vermiculite causes plant harmful substances like fluorine. This is a specific point of interest for RHP control.