The shiny flakes of the naturally occurring mineral vermiculite range in color from dark gray to sandy brown. These flakes, which are actually a type of hydrated magnesium iron aluminum silicate mineral, are heated in a specially designed industrial furnace, where they subsequently spread out and take on the shape of a concertina. This type of vermiculite is the one that is most frequently used in horticulture to help seedlings root more quickly or to improve the quality of the soil.
In hydroponics, which is essentially soil-free farming, vermiculite can be used in a variety of methods that are productive. Despite not using soil, hydroponic gardeners frequently employ additional items to aid in the growth of their plants. Vermiculite can be substituted for soil in a number of situations, such as seed germination or cutting roots. It promotes faster root development and aids in moisture management.
Magnesium, calcium, and potassium can all be more easily absorbed by plants with the aid of vermiculite. Additionally, it can be mixed with other non-soil components like perlite and pumice to make unique hydroponic growing media.
