Indoors, you really owe it to yourself to source perlite. Farmers' supply stores sell it in bulk. Yay, Agway.
Outdoors, I'd prefer vermiculite because it's less obvious (brown vs bright white) and holds water longer.
Indoors, you want the soil to be SUPER light, so perlite is ideal.
stinkyattic Reviewed by stinkyattic on . Vermiculite vs Pearlite I have been getting everything ready for my first grow. I went to the local nursery to get some FFOF and ferts i needed, along with the pearlite i see everyone using. Well they did not sell pearlite, all they sold was vermiculite so thats what i bought. Is this going to be ok? any input is appreciated. Rating: 5