Ausperl Vermiculite is a lightweight and sterile mineral that improves soil aeration, moisture retention, and nutrient availability. It’s ideal for adding to seed raising and potting mixes and propagating root cuttings. Promotes healthy root development. Unlike perlite, it retains water well and reduces the need for watering so frequently. Non-toxic and pH-neutral, it’s safe for organic gardening.
General Information about Vermiculite: A versatile mineral found naturally in the earth. Composed of hydrated magnesium aluminium silicate, it is lightweight, inorganic and fire-resistant. It is also compressible, highly absorbent, and chemically inert, making it suitable for a wide range of uses — from potting soils and grow media to countless industrial and commercial applications.
Freight Disclaimer: Please select this option only if you're ordering far from Sydney, i.e., in Regional NSW or outside NSW. If you are in Sydney or the surrounding areas, please select the option labelled Sydney & Surround (see below)
Main benefits:
- Inorganic, inert and sterile.
- Non-abrasive.
- Ultra lightweight.
- Free from disease, weeds and insects.
- Slightly alkaline (neutralised with peat).
- High cation-exchange (or buffering exchange).
- Excellent aeration characteristics.
- High water holding capacity.
- Insulating.
The following grades are supplied in 100-litre bags.
- Grade 1 (0-1mm) Not Available.
- Grade 2 (2-4mm) For Sale.
- Grade 3 (3-6mm) For Sale.
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Grade 4 (5-8mm) For Sale.
Suggested Mix Ratios (% by volume)
| APPLICATION | PEAT or PERLITE | AUSPERL VERMICULITE | GRADE | |
| Seed Raising
Quick Germination |
Fine Seed | 0% | 100% | 2 |
| Large Seed | 0% | 100% | 3 | |
| Seed Raising
Slow Germination |
Fine Seed | 50% | 50% | 2 |
| Large Seed | 25% | 75% | 3 | |
| Softwood Cuttings | On Open Bench | 25% | 75% | 2 |
| Under plastic | 50% | 50% | 3 | |
| Transplant Mixes | Block Mix | 80% | 20% | 3 |
| Seeding Wedgemix | 80% | 20% | 2 | |
| Potting Mixes | Bedding Plants | 75% | 25% | 3 |
| Vegetable Plants | 60% | 40% | 2 or 3 | |
| House Plants | 75% | 25% | 3 | |
| Hanging Baskets | 50% | 50% | 3 | |
| Nursery Stock | 80% | 20% | 3 | |
| If wetness is a problem, substitute up to half of the vermiculite with AUSPERL perlite (grade P500) AUSPERL vermiculite is not recommended for azaleas, rhododendrons and other lime-allergic plants. Excessive compaction and overwatering can impair results. |
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Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. What are the dimensions and weight of this vermiculite bag?
A. The dimensions are 34 x 23 x 103cm, and it weighs 9kg. For shipping purposes, this item is 25 cubic kilos.
Q. Is this product sterile, as I'm using it to hatch reptile eggs?
A. According to the manufacturer, this vermiculite is produced using very high temperatures and is therefore totally sterile.
Vermiculite is a naturally occurring mineral that is widely used in horticulture and various other applications due to its unique properties, such as its ability to retain water, aerate soil, and provide insulation. Below is an overview of its uses in horticulture and other fields:
Uses of Vermiculite in Horticulture
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Soil Amendment:
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Improves soil aeration and water retention, making it ideal for plants that require well-drained yet moist soil.
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It helps prevent soil compaction, allowing roots to grow more easily.
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Seed Starting:
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It is often used in seed-starting mixes because it retains moisture and provides a sterile environment for germination.
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It can be used alone or mixed with other materials like peat or compost.
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Rooting Cuttings:
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It is an excellent medium for rooting cuttings because it holds moisture and provides a lightweight, airy environment for root development.
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Potting Mixes:
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It is commonly added to potting soils to improve drainage and moisture retention, particularly for container-grown plants.
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Hydroponics:
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It is used in hydroponic systems as a growing medium due to its ability to hold water and nutrients while providing good aeration.
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Mulching:
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It can be used as a mulch to help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
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Composting:
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Can be added to compost piles to improve aeration and moisture retention, speeding up the decomposition process.
Other Uses of Vermiculite
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Note: Some vermiculite insulation may contain asbestos, so caution is advised when handling older insulation materials.
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Insulation:
It is used as a loose-fill insulation material in attics and walls due to its fire-resistant and insulating properties.
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Insulation:
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Construction:
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It is used in lightweight concrete, plaster, and fireproofing materials.
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It is also used in soundproofing applications.
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Packaging:
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It is often used as a lightweight, absorbent packaging material for fragile items, especially in the shipping of hazardous liquids.
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Industrial Applications:
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It is used as a filler in paints, coatings, and plastics.
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Also used in the production of brake linings and as a lubricant in certain industrial processes.
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Animal Feed Additive:
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In some cases, this product is used as a carrier for nutrients in animal feed.
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Fireproofing:
- Due to its fire-resistant properties, this medium is used in fireproof safes, doors, and other fire protection systems.