"H Hornblower" wrote in message
...
I tried to purchase a bag of vermiculite in a store in Ohio
yesterday. The clerk said they didn't carry it anymore because it was
illegal. Any truth to this?
I remember something a while back about prolonged exposure and
cancer risk but it wasn't garden related.

Agricultural vermiculite is not illegal. There was a scare awhile back
regarding vermiculite containing asbestos however that pertains to
construction materials containing vermiculite. Most ag. vermiculite is mined
at a different location than that used in the construction industry and is
asbestos-free. All vermiculite does contain tiny little particles/shards of
mica, which can be dangerous if inhaled over an extended period. A mask like
that used when working with peat or Portland cement should remove any
particulate matter and avoid any danger.

FWIW, perlite is a far better additive to potting mixes and soil for
increasing drainage, It doesn't absorb water and breakdown over time as
vermiculite will.

pam - gardengal