Do I need vermiculite ?

[Happymouse]

I went to a demonstration at our local garden centre. They covered fine seeds in vermiculite. I can't remember my Dad ever using the stuff. Is it necessary ? Do you all use it ?

[Tigger]

You don't need it but I like to use it (cheaply available at Wilkinsons or the Pound shops) as it's lighter than covering the seeds with soil and it's easy to see the seedlings againsat the light colour.

Mind you - I love to have as many bits of kit as possible, so many of the others will probably reply - "don't bother"!

[Colin_M]

I've been using it and Perlite for a couple of years now.

As well as the approach that Tigger describes, I also mix it in the soil used for pots, to improve the structure, drainage etc.

[richard p]

i only ever use multi purpose compost from one of the diy sheds, but i only grow veg , which are usually relitavly large seeds

[Bren]

Monty Don uses perlite if the seeds need light to germinate and compost if they need to be kept in the dark.
Bren

[Happymouse]

Thank you all for your quick replies. I will buy some.

[Geoff]

I always use the fine Vermiculite when sowing. If seeds need light I put a thin layer on top of the compost and sow into it, if they need a light covering I put it on afterwards, if they need a bit more covering I use a 50:50 mixture of Vermiculite and compost, big seeds like Sweet Peas I cover the surface then sow on the surface then push them down to the required depth with a pencil taking a bit of Vermiculite with them.

[Weed]

Isn't it supposed to help prevent any damping off?

[Johnboy]

When I sow in plug trays I always use fine Vermiculite and this is better than Perlite for seeding purposes. Perlite is really to give air porosity in the compost you use.
JB.

[Lurganspade]

.
A Wilko leaflet has just been popped through the letterbox!

There is vermiculite at £1.00 reduced from £1.29 and lots of other gardening bargains as usual!

Cheers