Perlite and Vermiculite are both used as soil additives and they seem to do the same thing. They make soil lighter, hold water and nutrients, and increase drainage. If they are so similar, why do we need both? In this post I will compare the two products and make it clear when and why you should use these soil amendments.
Perlite is used a lot in horticulture and can be found in many soilless mixes. There are concerns about fluoride and aluminum toxicity which can be harmful to plants, but how big of a problem is this?
Lots of people recommend the use of perlite in gardens, especially for raised beds. Is that a good idea?
This post will look at the truth about perlite.
