Product Details
Vitax Vermiculite Highly absorbent lightweight compost additive, vermiculite is a natural mineral which has been heated to a high temperature, comprising lightweight, highly absorbent flakes. Providing good air balance, Vermiculite helps maintain an even temperature and can be used for seed germinations, pricking out, potting-on and plants in containers or tubs. By adding Vermiculite to growing media it will improve aeration and increase retention of moisture and nutrients. Vermiculite can help promote faster, healthier plant growth and also possesses ‘cation exchange’ properties enabling it to hold and make available to growing plants ammonium, potassium, calcium and magnesium.
How to Use:
- Seed Germination: Mix vermiculite with soil or compost to improve moisture retention and aeration for seed germination.
- Pricking Out: When transplanting seedlings into individual pots, use vermiculite to create a lightweight and well-draining potting mix.
- Potting On: Incorporate vermiculite into potting soil when repotting plants into larger containers to improve moisture retention and nutrient availability.
Where to Use:
- Vitax Vermiculite is suitable for use in various gardening applications, including seed starting, pricking out, potting on, and container gardening.
- It can be used in indoor and outdoor settings, such as greenhouses, gardens, and container gardens.
When to Apply:
- Apply vermiculite when preparing soil mixes for seed starting, pricking out, or potting on plants.
- Vermiculite can be used throughout the growing season as needed to improve soil structure and moisture retention.
- For seed starting, mix vermiculite with soil or compost before sowing seeds.
- When repotting plants, mix vermiculite with potting soil to improve drainage and aeration.
Cautions:
- Avoid inhaling dust when handling vermiculite. Wear a mask and gloves, and work in a well-ventilated area.
- Store vermiculite in a dry place away from moisture to prevent it from compacting or becoming moldy.
- Keep vermiculite out of reach of children and pets, as ingestion may cause irritation.
- Do not apply vermiculite in excessive amounts, as it may lead to waterlogging in containers.
- Always follow the recommended mixing ratios when using vermiculite in soil mixes or potting mixes.
- While vermiculite can improve moisture retention, it is important not to overwater plants, as this can lead to root rot.
- Check the pH of the soil mix after incorporating vermiculite, as it may affect the pH balance of the growing medium.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively use Vitax Vermiculite to improve soil structure, moisture retention, and nutrient availability for healthier plant growth.