Many growers choose to grow with vermiculite in hydroponics. If you use vermiculite in hydroponics, I recommend a ratio of 50/50 with perlite. You should mix it because it can hold too much water if used by itself. Vermiculite is similar to perlite, but different in a few key ways. For one, it holds a lot more water than perlite.

Furthermore, vermiculite is a volcanic mineral that has been mined and heated. It is not as porous as perlite though it can be used in soil and hydroponic grows. Naturally, it contains small amounts silicon, magnesium, phosphorus and aluminum.

Vermiculite for Sale

Most hydro stores sell Vermiculite. You can also find it any hardware store like Home Depot, Dixieline and Lowes. If you discover that they do not have in stock, you can easily order it online. However, a downfall to purchasing locally is the selection.

Vermiculite is available in fine, medium and coarse grades. Though I can’t confirm this, I have read that Vermiculite retains 200 to 300 percent moisture by weight. In other words, vermiculite holds a ton of water. In contrast, it holds a lot more water than perlite and expanded clay pebbles. It is a perfect amendment for water loving plants. But it can also suffocate roots if used incorrectly.

For my summer soil grows, I like to mix vermiculite into my soil. With it’s water holding ability, Vermiculite is perfect for hot summer grows. For soil, I recommend mixing it in at a ratio of 5 parts soil for every 1 part Vermiculite.

Vermiculite is very affordable. I recommend looking for organic options when purchasing. Vermiculite can contain asbestos which is toxic for your health. Avoid using on windy days and do not inhale dust.

Final Thoughts

I hope this short blog helped! If you have any questions, please post them in the comment section. If you are interested in learning even more about growing cannabis, please check out my blog. Here are a few of my most recent: 

• The Cannabis Growing Season – Southern California
• Is a Grow Tent Necessary
• Trichomes When to Harvest
• Cannabis Water Filter
• Organic Fertilizers for Cannabis
• Cannabis Pot Size Guide