A VPD that is too high means drier air and increased evaporation and transpiration. Too low a VPD can lead to slowed transpiration and reduced growth. It is VPD that drives transpiration and nutrient uptake in plants; the uptake of water at the roots is determined by the loss of water through the shoots, and the loss of water through the shoots is determined by how much water is in the air.
Perlite will help but won't solveyour problem.
Highly recommended you read up Bruce bugbees videos on yourirbe with regard to the 9 cardinal rules of plant growth, how they all rely on each part of the process to run in unison.
Water won't move because it has no where to go.
Evaporation, drainage or uptake.
Moisture not wicking from one atmosphere to another.
Good luck.