Okay, from my research into this vermiculite problem, it's the stuff they get
from Africa, not our local vermiculite which is the problem. However, lava sand
is a much more effective product, if you can find it.


On Sun, 18 Apr 2004 20:28:38 GMT, "Laura J"
opined:

Hi all,

I'm a complete newbie when it comes to gardening and am trying to start a
plot using the concepts of www.squarefootgardening.com. He suggests a
mixture of 1/3 peat moss, 1/3 coarse vermiculite and 1/3 compost. Problem
is I can't find the vermiculite and the guy at our local garden center says
it's because it's now illegal. I did some research on this group and see
that it's been discussed extensively but couldn't find any suggested
alternatives. What else would you put into this mixture if you couldn't
find vermiculite? In case it matters, I'm in zone 6a and am planning on
planting tomatoes, peppers, beets, arugula, basil, parsley, peas and beans.

Thanks for any advice you can offer!

LauraJ