moisture for vermiculite

[dale]

Hi Everyone

does any one know how much water to add to vermiculite for panther eggs

Thanks Dale

 

[joefarah]

Hi Dale,

I don't actually measure ratios, I just add a bit at a time until it clumps together... A little on the drier side is safer than too wet.

They can tolerate quite a range of moisture levels. I usually start out with vermiculite that is damp to the touch and towards the end when they are about to hatch I make it much more moist to simulate spring rains and such. I also boost the temps at the same time.

Sorry that isn't too specific but I hope it helps.

 

[dale]

Hi joefarah,

Yeah thanks for that its really useful to know. I will incorporate what you have said because all I have seen to date is a ratio of 0.8 of water to 1 part vermiculite which went straight over the top of my head thanks once more for your information.

Dale

 

[AFH]

The general rule I've read here is "damp until when you sqeeze it it sticks together and only a drop or two comes out". Seems to work pretty well, though not scientific.

 

[joefarah]

The general rule I've read here is "damp until when you sqeeze it it sticks together and only a drop or two comes out". Seems to work pretty well, though not scientific.

Yeah, that pretty well describes how wet mine is...

It's almost like cooking a dish you've made a bunch of times. You don't need to get out the measuring spoons because you have a feel for what is the right amount.

 

[BIGGUN]

I always wondered this myself, yet every time I do it I just go by feel..........not tonight!

OK so this time I measured it out.

The perfect mix for me seems to be 1 part water to 3 parts vermiculite. After a little research some suggest as much as 1 part water to 2 parts vermiculite. If you start out with 1 to 3 you could always add water to get it to exactly where you want it. This would be a good start so you're not adding a drop of water at a time not knowing what to expect.

Hope this helps.

Kevin