I am a novice also, so keep that in mind when you read this. What I've read about vermiculite is that it retains water. It seems to me that if you live where it is dry, maybe it would be helpful especially if you don't wick. I live in very humid Missouri so I would be concerned that vermiculite would keep my plants too moist. Hopefully, you will hear from some of the experienced growers.

My understanding is that Vermiculite helps with moisture retention, ... and that Pearlite helps to open up the soil so that your plants' root can breathe adequately.

Given that I've been more apt to keep my plants TOO MOIST, I don't add Vermiculite, but do add Pearlite.

I, too, have found that vermiculite holds moisture while perlite makes better drainage which promotes healthy root systems. I always add about 1 part perlite to 2 parts african violet soil in just about any brand I've tried. It seems they all are a little dense & hold too much moisture. I hope this helps, Trudy

pure vermiculite is an excellent medium in which to start av leaves. perlite amends the soil to create air space. if you buy a traditional av mix at the store, you should 'cut it' with perlite. i use a 1:1 ratio, but 2:1 would be okay [the 1 is perlite mix]. using perlite gives less chance of over watering and adds air space.

use vermiculite to make a forsythe pot

another useful link

dave

Hear, hear - I used vermiculite to root especially stubborn variegated leaves - it is a sterile media, nothing organic there - and much less chances for leaves to rot.

I.