Vermiculite....say what???!!!

[carrot-cruncher]

Have come across several items recently regarding seed sowing that mention covering the seed with "vermiculite" to promote germination.

Can anybody enlighten me to the benefits of using this never-before-encountered stuff 'cos up until now I've always covered my seeds with a layer of the same stuff under them.

Answers on a post card please ;)  ;)

CC

[carrot-cruncher]

[wardy]

I used vermiculite on the top of seeds that I may think will take a while to germinate as it keeps the moisture in when you water the tray before or after seed sowing.  That's my theory anyway but it does seem to work.  Also if seeds get a bit leggy I top dress them with some Vermiculite if I don't have time to repot them (it's like earthing them up and it gives them a bit of support)

Someone says (can't remember who) that it helps prevent damping off

You can also mix it with your seed or potting compost to make it lighter

[tim]

I've always used V - the FINE stuff - sterile, easy to trickle on, good moisture indicator (returns to pale when dry), good moisture retention, light & warm like a duvet, allows some light through for those seeds that like that.

Outdoors, shows your sowing line.

[Moggle]

CC If you have a marvellous Wilkos near you they have vermiculite for around £1.99, or it could even be less  :)

[rosebud]

Thank you very much for that Moggle, i saw some at the garden centre and it was 3-99so its still there ,but i shall visit Wilkos. cheers Rosebud.

[Kerry]

it's on offer at wilko's at the moment-2 bags for £3.

[carrot-cruncher]

Wilkos it is then.   

Will have to see how I get on with it.

Thanks everyone

CC

[tim]

btw - if you find, after all, that you haven't got fine - put it through a sieve.

I don't think the magimix would do it?