Introduce Coco Coir
Sounds strange? Coco coir is a growth medium made from coconut fibers that is acquired responsibly. It outperforms peat moss as a growth medium. It also contains a pH that is close to neutral, as well as a number of other qualities that encourage healthy snake plant growth. It’s also not limited to hydroponics. It works well in the garden, on potted plants, and as a hanger. Continue reading to find out more about this unique growing medium and its various forms.
What Are The Benefits Coco Coir?
The benefits of this special growing media are detailed in the section below.
Water Retention
Coco coir can hold up to ten times its weight in water on average. Because of its propensity to hold water, it’s a popular addition to hanging baskets, container plants, and potting soils. It can also be used as a stand-alone growing medium in hydroponic systems. It can store nearly 30% more water than peat moss.
Aeration and Drainage
Coco coir is also utilized as a soil additive to helping with aeration. It is responsible for creating microscopic air pockets when introduced to the soil. These pockets supply oxygen, water, and important nutrients to the roots. The air spaces encourage healthy root growth and, as a result, more vibrant plants. Air pockets are also in charge of ensuring that water drains properly. If a plant’s roots are unable to drain correctly, they may drown. In addition, the soil may erode or become compacted.
Neutral pH
Coco coir, unlike many other soil additions, has a pH that is virtually neutral. The pH of coco coir ranges from 6.7 to 7. Peat moss, on the other hand, is a popular hydroponics alternative with a pH range of 3 to 4. A pH of 7 is considered neutral. Lower values are acidic, while higher values are alkaline. The availability of critical nutrients is influenced by the pH of the soil. It’s worth remembering that each plant has a pH level that it prefers.
Nutrients
Coco coir is high in a variety of key plant growth nutrients. Calcium, magnesium, and potassium are all present in modest levels. Coco coir, on the other hand, is known for retaining nutrients. As a result, most producers choose to modify their soil with a coco coir fertilizer blend.
Sustainable
Coco coir is popular among farmers since it is a renewable resource. Coconut plants can produce up to 150 coconuts each year. During harvesting, coconut palms are not harmed. Because coco coir is a byproduct of these harvests, it prevents the waste of materials that would otherwise be discarded. Instead of coco coir, many hydroponic gardeners utilize peat moss. Peat moss, on the other hand, degrades more quickly. Furthermore, it is sourced from fragile peat bogs. Unfortunately, fully restoring a peat bog might take up to 25 years.
Protect From Bacteria Growth
The growth of dangerous bacteria, rot, and fungus is inhibited by coconut fibers. The neutral pH of coco coir makes it an unsuitable home for dangerous microbes. The lignin component of the substance protects it from inhibitors. Lignin is a hard, rot-resistant polymer that occurs naturally.
Reusable
Some gardeners choose to reuse their coconut peat to save money. While repurposed coir is more disease-prone, it is also environmentally beneficial and simple to work with. Coco coir is compostable, although it takes roughly 25 years to decompose. As a result, it’s a good idea to get two or three uses out of it before throwing it out.
Summary
This growing medium really has many benefits you don’t know before. Try to apply your snake plant use this! And share your experiences about it, maybe you already tried? We glad to hear you!