Pearlite vs Vermiculite

AimAim

AimAim

Well-Known Member
Whats the difference between pearlite and vermiculite? I know they are different and I know how they are made but do they work differently as a soil amendment? I asked the guy in my hydro shop and he said they functioned the same (aeration and drainage). I've always amended with verm since I have grown outdoors and it blends in better. Anyway just curious if anyone had a preference and why.

Thanks - Aim
 
Completely different.

Perlite is less absorbant, harder volcanic glass. (breaks down to powder) a bit like pumice

Vermiculite soaks up more water, like a sponge, breaks down quicker (almost to a mush).

There are a few other differences; :peace:
 
[video=youtube;wPjqo6Ad1Gw]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wPjqo6Ad1Gw[/video]

i think he needs to run the test again though, doesnt look that controlled.
 
Moebius said:
Completely different.

Perlite is less absorbant, harder volcanic glass. (breaks down to powder) a bit like pumice

Vermiculite soaks up more water, like a sponge, breaks down quicker (almost to a mush).

There are a few other differences; :peace:
Click to expand...


Thanks. Makes sense, sounds like Plite is more for drainage/aeration and Vlite does the same but has some water holding capacity.
 
bmeat said:
[video=youtube;wPjqo6Ad1Gw]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wPjqo6Ad1Gw[/video]

i think he needs to run the test again though, doesnt look that controlled.
Click to expand...

Hey bmeat thanks for this information. Interesting.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top