agricultural science that has a speci c role in integrated nutrient management strategies .
What is Vermiculite ? Vermiculite consists of shiny akes , resembling mica . When heated to a high temperature , akes of vermiculite expand as much as eight to 30 times their original size . �e expanded vermiculite is a light-weight , re-resistant , and odourless material and has been used in numerous products , including insulation for attics and walls . Sizes of vermiculite products range from very ne particles to large ( coarse ) pieces nearly an inch long .
Vermiculite has been used in various industries for over 80 years . It is used in the construction , agricultural , horticultural , and industrial markets . Vermiculite has the excellent properties to be essential component for seedling ,
planting , germination and cutting . When combined with organic material ( peat , coco-peat and compost ), vermiculite promotes faster root growth and gives quick anchorage to young roots . Farming using the mineral has been successful in Japan , Germany , US , South Africa and Canada . He said application of vermiculite at the bottom of furrows below the level of fertilisers would reduce leaching when precipitation occurs and therefore reducing fertiliser loss and leading to a higher growth efficiency .
It also has a high cat-ion exchange capacity that helps prevent leaching of essential nutrients , especially nitrogen , potassium and magnesium . It aerates the soil and holds moisture-like organic matter and this is probably why it works so well in even small amounts . It is also ideal for small seed germination , medium or for covering like cabbage or tomato seeds and tobacco seedbed germination . Uganda is the second in the world a�er South Africa in vermiculite production with an estimated 50 million metric tonnes at Namekhara and its surrounding areas . According to Ugandan geologist vermiculite mineral deposits in Manafwa District , eastern region , can contribute to the transformation of Uganda ' s crop output by three to ve times the current production levels .
Nathan Wolukawu Wanda , chief executive officer , Agro-Minerals Africa Uganda , says vermiculite , a naturally occurring mineral found at Namekhala , Butiru sub-county in Manafwa District , that has ability to improve the soils ' and plants ' capacity to capture large amounts of the essential nutrients such as nitrogen , phosphorous , potassium , ammonium , calcium and magnesium , for healthy , better and rapid plant-growth .