Sometimes “box stores” like Wal-Mart, Home Depot, or Lowes will carry vermiculite. However, they tend to carry only small bags, and they are expensive. It’s better to get them in larger quantities (3 or 4 cubic foot bags), which can sometimes be found at local nurseries or farm co-op stores.
Full Answer
Where to buy vermiculite in New York?
In Western NY, you can buy coarse vermiculite at BFG Garden Supply in Lancaster, NY. (1500 Commerce Pkway) $32.70 for 4 cubic foot. Home Depot now carries 2 cu ft bags of horticultural vermiculite (medium grade). Check out the on-line website. My local Home Depot stores now have it in stock.
How do I use vermiculite?
To care for plants and lawns - where soils are sandy, mix vermiculite into the soil, as this will allow the soil to hold water and air needed for growth. Vermiculite can even used alone or with soil for seed germination. Invigorate your lawn or garden with a wide assortment of exclusive Vigoro products.
What is vermiculite soil amendment?
This THERMOROCK 2.0 cu. ft. Vermiculite is an organic, asbestos-free soil amendment that can be used to improve moisture retention and aeration in potting mixes. It helps support root structure and stimulates root growth. You will need Adobe® Acrobat® Reader to view PDF documents. Download a free copy from the Adobe Web site.
What is Schultz vermiculite?
Schultz Horticultural Vermiculite is a 100% all natural product to be used as a soil amendment. Vermiculite helps to promote water retention and increase aeration in soil aeration. Vermiculite provides a reservoir for roots to access water from. Vermiculite will help reduce and balance the water requirements of plants.
Does Lowe's sell vermiculite?
Sta-Green Organic Vermiculite Improves Soil Structure in the Soil Amendments department at Lowes.com.
Can I use perlite instead of vermiculite?
Perlite and vermiculite are both used to improve moisture retention and aeration in soil. They are used in a similar manner, but they are not interchangeable.
What can I use instead of vermiculite?
Alternatives to VermiculitePeat. Peat (also known as peat moss) is light and holds moisture well but not does not stay soggy. ... Coir. Coir is coconut dust. ... Perlite. Like vermiculite, perlite is an inorganic matter added to the garden to improve water drainage and permeability. ... Sawdust. ... Shredded Hardwood Bark or Wood Chips.
Is perlite and vermiculite the same thing?
Perlite acts as an aerator, helping the soil shed water. Vermiculite acts as a sponge to help the soil hold moisture. Both of them work in tandem to give your soil the right balance of drainage and water retention.
How long does vermiculite last?
I heard that vermiculite last for 2 years, until it decomposes, then you have to add it again. However perlite lasts for a long time. Also vermiculite, could have some asbestos, or, asbestos like material/fine dust that could cause some breathing problem down the road.
When should you use vermiculite?
Use 1/3 to 1/2 vermiculite in your potting soil for containers or when building your raised beds, or improve your garden soil by adding it in the spring with your other soil amendments and compost. For new lawns, spread a 1/4 inch layer evenly around the planted area just after you seed it, then irrigate well.
How much does vermiculite cost?
Compare with similar itemsThis item Bectine Vermiculite 4 Cubic Ft, Coarse Grade A3 #1 Best SellerAdd to CartCustomer Rating4.4 out of 5 stars (3209)Price$5899Sold ByEasyGoProducts3 more rows
Is there a vermiculite shortage?
Vermiculite – Vermiculite (and to a lesser degree, perlite) is a challenge even during normal times due to the fact that production is a challenge. We anticipate extreme shortage of the material this year, with total unavailability for the first half of the year a real possibility.
How do you make vermiculite?
4:165:43DIY Vermiculite Firebricks for a MINI FORGE - Part 1 - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWe were using seven parts vermiculite two parts cement two parts sand and water to bind we actuallyMoreWe were using seven parts vermiculite two parts cement two parts sand and water to bind we actually use 3.5 parts of water.
Which is better for potting soil vermiculite or perlite?
The main difference between the two, however, is that, while perlite for plants can suck up four times its weight in water, vermiculite sponges up to sixteen times its weight in water. So, vermiculite is more effective at gathering and redistributing moisture than perlite is.
Does vermiculite still contain asbestos?
Vermiculite and gardening use An EPA study showed some vermiculite products contain low levels of asbestos. Asbestos is found primarily in the unmixed vermiculite product although some was found in pre-mixed potting soils. For consumers using vermiculite on an infrequent basis the health risk is low.
Does vermiculite break down in soil?
Vermiculite is odorless, can be purchased in horticultural-grade bags with directions on working it into the garden soil. It's a permanent soil conditioner and won't break down in your soil like compost does.
What are the disadvantages of perlite?
Cons:Water can drain away quickly. ... Being so lightweight, perlite can be blown away and tends to float in excess water.Nonrenewable resource. ... Dust can create respiratory problems and eye irritation.
Can I put perlite on top of soil?
Placing fresh perlite on top of the soil around the plant or using it for a lightweight upper layer of growing medium creates a fresh, modern container arrangement.
Does perlite contain asbestos?
Perlite, including perlite building Insulation is a non-fibrous non-asbestos-containing material which has an R-value of about 2.7 per inch and would not be expected to contain asbestos.
Can you grow plants in perlite?
It is possible to grow most plants in perlite alone, although usually the finer grades and medium grades will work better and require less water. Seeds can be started in any grade of perlite, but with smaller seeds, finer grades of perlite would be recommended. Perlite is good for greenhouse benches.
Product Overview
This THERMOROCK 2.0 cu. ft. Vermiculite is an organic, asbestos-free soil amendment that can be used to improve moisture retention and aeration in potting mixes. It helps support root structure and stimulates root growth.
Info & Guides
You will need Adobe® Acrobat® Reader to view PDF documents. Download a free copy from the Adobe Web site.
What is vermiculite used for?
Vermiculite helps to promote water retention and increase aeration in soil aeration. Vermiculite provides a reservoir for roots to access water from. Vermiculite will help reduce and balance the water requirements of plants. Ideal for all types of container planting. Available in a convenient 9 litre re-sealable bag.
What is a 9 litre viticulture?
Vermiculite - 9 Litre Schultz Horticultural Vermiculite is a 100% all natural product to be used as a soil amendment. Vermiculite helps to promote water retention and increase aeration in soil aeration. Vermiculite provides a reservoir for roots to access water from. Vermiculite will help reduce and balance the water requirements of plants. Ideal for all types of container planting. Available in a convenient 9 litre re-sealable bag.