Perlite is a volcanic glass that is often used in gardening due to its lightweight, porous nature that aids in healthy plant development. "It is made from a type of volcanic glass called obsidian," ...

Perlite, a volcanic rock, is a common ingredient in potting mixes. It improves drainage, aeration and water retention in soil. Perlite is lightweight and can be added to in-ground gardens, but it's ...

Perlite is better for propagating plants, since it's more lightweight, says Jabbour. However, she uses vermiculite for seed starting, as this mineral is easier to add to the soil surface.

Until you start gardening, “soil” and “dirt” are interchangeable. Once you’ve tried to grow anything by just digging a hole in the ground, you’ll notice that the ground is probably full of clay or ...

We spoke with gardening experts to learn the differences between vermiculite and perlite—and how to use each to boost your soil quality.

Every gardener wants nutrient-rich soil. But just because your yard doesn’t have enough nutrients naturally doesn’t mean you can’t add more with the help of vermiculite or perlite, common soil ...