Perlite vs Vermiculite for Starting Mixes?

[Greatgardens]

I ran a little test putting hort. grade vermiculite in a small jar and then adding water. It did suck up the water and swell significantly. Surprising to me how much it swelled. Of course, no such issue with Perlite.

Anyone know of any good sources for fine perlite? I could screen the bigger stuff out, but that would be my second choice to buying what I want.

-GG

[FourOaks]

Originally Posted by Greatgardens

I ran a little test putting hort. grade vermiculite in a small jar and then adding water. It did suck up the water and swell significantly. Surprising to me how much it swelled. Of course, no such issue with Perlite.

Anyone know of any good sources for fine perlite? I could screen the bigger stuff out, but that would be my second choice to buying what I want.

-GG

Your local hydroponic store.

[Greatgardens]

Had another thought -- maybe DE instead of perlite. That is definitely about the right size, and I think I still have some of the DE (oil absorbent) I bought several seasons ago.

-GG