Pakistan Gardening Forum

Perlite
White granular particles
A form of volcanic glass
Containing about 6% water
Neutral pH
Surface area of the particles are covered with little indents that hold plant nutrients and water
Clean, odorless, sterile and nontoxic
Will not rot or mold
Better for drainage than vermiculite
Lightweight substitute for sand
Can float to the top of potted plants due to its light weight
Holds 3-4 times it’s weight in water

Vermiculite
Silicate mineral resembling mica, the color can vary
Retain moisture and plant nutrients
Mixes well with soil
Clean, sterile, odorless, non-toxic
Cheaper than perlite
Contains trace minerals
Retains water, air and nutirents
Not as durable as perlite
Can trap too much water causing soggy, mucky soil

For Drainage: Choose perlite
For Water Retention: Choose vermiculite

It’s best to use them together as they have complimentary properties and you’ll end up with the best of both worlds.

Farhan, you are doing a great job by starting the series of basic & essential gardening information,thus educating the common/new gardeners . It is evident that you have embarked upon a quantum improvment, by bringing in various welcome changes in the Forum. It should go a long way in further popularising the Forum.
May you succeed!
I ll have some more to say on a similar issue about limited participation by most Forum members - concern shown by you/others in another thread.