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  2. Asbestos

I use/used vermiculite to enhance my potting soil. Should I be concerned?

EPA's investigation (https://www.epa.gov/asbestos/protect-your-family-asbestos-contaminated-vermiculite-insulation) into these products indicates that consumers face only a minimal health risk from using vermiculite products at home or in their gardens.

To further reduce the risk associated with the occasional use of vermiculite products during gardening activities, EPA recommends that consumers:

  • Use vermiculite outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
  • Avoid creating dust by keeping vermiculite damp during use.
  • Avoid bringing dust into the home on clothing.

Although EPA does not endorse the use of any particular product, consumers may choose to use:

Other Frequent Questions about Asbestos

Learn About Asbestos
Asbestos and School Buildings
Information for Owners and Managers of Buildings that Contain Asbestos

Protect Your Family from Exposures to Asbestos
Asbestos Contaminated Vermiculite Insulation

  • Premixed potting soils, which ordinarily contain more moisture and less vermiculite than pure vermiculite products and are less likely to generate dust.
  • Soil amendment materials other than vermiculite, such as peat, sawdust, perlite, or bark.

Asbestos

  • Learn About Asbestos
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Contact Us about Asbestos
Contact Us to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem.
Last updated on February 13, 2025
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