Vermiculite is a naturally occurring versatile mineral comes from a phyllosilicate group of minerals resembles mica in appearance. It is a soil amendment that adds moisture to sandy soils which has been used in various industries for more than 80 years. Vermiculite is the mineralogical name given to the hydrated laminar magnesium-aluminium-ironsilicate. It has various potential characteristics such as lightweight, absorbent and incombustible.
We can use this material for assorted applications such as:
Lightweight Concretes and Screeds
Vermiculite Plasters
Loose Fill Insulation
Fire Protection
Horticulture
Refractory & High Temperature Insulation
Friction Linings
Swimming Pool Liners
Packing Material
Animal Feed
Above all these applications, we are going to see particularly the essential usage of horticulture and agriculture.
It is well established as a growing medium in which the usage of vermiculite for horticulture and agriculture is very famous and prominent. This can also be used as a transporter and extender for fertilizers, pesticides & herbicides and also used in a ground form for encapsulating seeds.
When it is combined with organic materials like peat, coco peat, compost and much more then it promotes the growth of the plants extensively.
What are the advantages of vermiculite for agriculture in gardening purpose?
Improves aeration
Enhances drainage
Adds permanent soil conditioner
Slightly raises PH
Makes other mineral available
Several other advantageous properties including:
Inorganic and sterile
High water holding capacity
Non-abrasive and non-irritant
Absorbs excess nutrients
Low alkalinity
High cation-exchange capacity
Free from disease, weeds and insects
Good air holding capacity
Insulates and minimizes soil temperature fluctuations
Facilitates re-wetting
Applying new technology to produce highest quality agriculture vermiculite is mandatory. This latest technology for processing minerals leads to low overheads. In which, the agricultural vermiculite can be used as a soil conditioner as well as additive for plants along with perlite for potted plants.
Germination of seeds:
It has aeration properties incorporated with the water holding capacity makes an appropriate medium for the direct contact with the seeds. The use of this mineral is been justified both on the stage of germination and seedling production of grains and plants when it is grown in open ground. We can apply special quality vermiculite for assorted purposes like seed germination, transplanting, potting mixes, in hose plants, creating and maintaining greener and healthier lawns.
How the exfoliated vermiculite can be used for horticulture?
Ok, now let us see about the pros and cons of vermiculite mineral!
Both pros and cons of gardening could be substantial by depending upon the structure and condition of the area.
The presence of this mineral highly increases aeration and moisture retention and by through high cation exchange capacity (CEC), it minimizes fertilizer leaching as well. It dominates all the materials with its utterly low density and thermal conductivity feature.
In India, there are various number of vermiculite manufacturers who produces wide ranging grades solely for industrial and commercial purposes. Those experts know the significance of this mineral and have great range of packaging options to suit all requirements.