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Vermiculite or perlite

LizaJLizaJ Posts: 51
in Plants
Which is best to use with compost when sowing seeds, vermiculite or perlite?

Posts

  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    You can use either. I personally prefer Perlite. Vermiculite allegedly holds onto moisture more, although I think the difference would be tiny. 
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
  • LilyandPoppy.LilyandPoppy. Posts: 26
    I agree with Fairygirl,  Perlite for me as well.
  • BobTheGardenerBobTheGardener Posts: 11,385
    I was going to say exactly the same as Philippa! :)
    A trowel in the hand is worth a thousand lost under a bush.
  • LizaJLizaJ Posts: 51
    Thanks all
  • PerkiPerki Posts: 2,527
    For seeds vermiculite - retains moister and opens the compost up and ideal for covering seeds , I've bought seedling before grown in pure vermiclite. 

    I use perlite for cutting ideal for drainage opening up the compost.
  • InglezinhoInglezinho Posts: 568
    Don't discount small clay pebbles, you can get them now very small. I find them very good for those easy-rotters.
    Everyone likes butterflies. Nobody likes caterpillars.
  • LynLyn Posts: 23,190
    I use vermiculite mixed in with compost for seed sowing, and sprinkling on top,  I’ve got a huge bag of perlite, never use it. 
    Gardening on the wild, windy west side of Dartmoor. 

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