This is a discussion into Coco coir nutrients, why they are different to normal nutrients, what to look for when choosing one and links to few well-known brands in Australia.
Just a quick one about nutrients in case you are not familiar with the subject at all:
Nutrients play a crucial role in the growth and health of plants. There are three primary categories of nutrients that plants require: primary nutrients, secondary nutrients, and micronutrients.
- Primary Nutrients:
- Nitrogen (N): Essential for leaf and stem growth, as well as the overall development of the plant.
- Phosphorus (P): Promotes root development, flower and fruit production, and energy transfer within the plant.
- Potassium (K): Aids in various physiological processes, including water regulation, disease resistance, and overall plant vigor.
- Secondary Nutrients:
- Calcium (Ca): Important for cell wall structure and development, as well as root and shoot growth.
- Magnesium (Mg): Key component of chlorophyll, which is essential for photosynthesis.
- Sulfur (S): Required for the synthesis of amino acids, proteins, and enzymes.
- Micronutrients: These are required in smaller quantities, but they’re equally important for plant health. Micronutrients include elements like iron, manganese, zinc, copper, boron, molybdenum, and chlorine.
The availability of these nutrients can vary depending on factors such as soil type, pH, and organic matter content. It’s important to provide plants with a balanced and appropriate mix of these nutrients to ensure their optimal growth. This can be achieved through the use of fertilizers, both organic and synthetic, that contain these essential elements.
What is special about Coco nutrients?
Hydroponic nutrients are formulated to provide essential elements to plants grown without soil, where the nutrients are directly dissolved in water and delivered to the plants’ root systems. When comparing a general hydroponic nutrient brand like “Growrite” to nutrients specifically designed for plants grown in coco coir medium, there are several key differences to consider:
- Nutrient Composition: Nutrients designed for coco coir take into account the unique properties of this medium. Coco coir tends to retain and release nutrients differently compared to other hydroponic mediums. Therefore, coco-specific nutrients are formulated to match the nutrient availability and uptake patterns of plants grown in coco coir.
- Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC): Coco coir has a higher CEC compared to other hydroponic mediums like rock wool or perlite. This means coco coir can hold and exchange nutrients more effectively. Nutrients formulated for coco coir consider this higher CEC and adjust the nutrient ratios accordingly.
- Calcium and Magnesium Content: Coco coir can sometimes have a tendency to retain calcium and magnesium, which are essential nutrients. Nutrient solutions for coco coir will often contain higher levels of calcium and magnesium to compensate for potential deficiencies.
- pH Stabilization: Coco coir has a natural tendency to slightly acidify the nutrient solution. Coco-specific nutrient formulations may include pH stabilizers to help maintain an optimal pH range for nutrient uptake.
- Additives and Enhancers: Some nutrient brands designed for coco coir may include additives and enhancers specific to this medium. These additives could help address any potential issues related to nutrient availability, pH fluctuations, or nutrient imbalances.
- Ease of Use: While general hydroponic nutrient brands like “Growrite” can work for various hydroponic systems, coco coir-specific nutrients are tailored to the unique characteristics of this medium. Using nutrients designed for coco coir can potentially simplify nutrient management and optimize plant growth in coco-based systems.
When choosing hydroponic nutrients for your coco coir-based system, it’s recommended to look for brands that explicitly mention compatibility with coco coir and offer formulations designed to address the medium’s characteristics. Reading product labels and descriptions will help you identify nutrients that are best suited for your specific growing setup.
Several reputable coco coir nutrient brands are available in Australia. Here are a few well-known nutrient brands:
- Canna Coco: Canna is a widely recognized brand that offers a specialized nutrient line for coco coir. Their Coco A and Coco B nutrients are designed to provide a balanced nutrient solution for plants grown in coco coir.
- Advanced Nutrients: Advanced Nutrients is another well-known brand that offers a range of hydroponic nutrients, including formulations for coco coir. Their “Jungle Juice Coco” series is formulated to meet the specific needs of plants grown in coco coir.
- House & Garden Coco: House & Garden offers a nutrient line designed specifically for coco coir growing. Their Coco A and Coco B nutrients are formulated to maximize plant growth and yield in coco coir media.
- Cyco Platinum Series Coco: Cyco offers a coco coir nutrient line as part of their Platinum Series. These nutrients are designed to address the unique requirements of plants grown in coco coir, providing the necessary elements for optimal growth.
- Remo Nutrients: Remo Nutrients offers a “Micro,” “Grow,” and “Bloom” nutrient trio that includes a formulation for coco coir. Their Coco Micro, Grow, and Bloom nutrients are tailored to coco coir’s characteristics.
- Dutch Master: Dutch Master also provides nutrients for coco coir cultivation. Their “Coco Feed” is designed to ensure that plants in coco coir receive the essential nutrients they need.
It’s important to read product labels, descriptions, and user reviews to find a nutrient brand that aligns with your specific goals and preferences. Additionally, consulting with local hydroponic experts or fellow growers can provide valuable insights into which nutrient brands have performed well in your region. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended dosage and usage instructions for the best results.
What is Calcium used for?
Calcium (Ca):
- Cell Wall Structure: Calcium is a key component of plant cell walls. It provides rigidity and stability to cell walls, helping plants maintain their structure and resist diseases and pests.
- Cell Division and Growth: Calcium is involved in cell division and elongation, contributing to overall plant growth and development.
- Nutrient Uptake and Transport: Adequate calcium levels help plants absorb and transport other nutrients, promoting nutrient efficiency and plant health.
- Enzyme Activation: Calcium activates various enzymes within plant cells, facilitating biochemical reactions that are essential for metabolic processes.
When Plants Need Calcium: Plants require a consistent supply of calcium throughout their growth cycle. However, there are specific growth stages where calcium is particularly important:
- Seed Germination: Calcium aids in the formation of the seed coat and provides initial structure to emerging seedlings.
- Root Development: Calcium contributes to strong root development, enhancing the plant’s ability to absorb water and nutrients.
- Flower and Fruit Formation: Calcium is crucial for preventing disorders like blossom-end rot in tomatoes and peppers, which can occur when calcium is deficient during fruit development.
What is Magnesium used for?
Magnesium (Mg):
- Chlorophyll Formation: Magnesium is an essential component of chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for photosynthesis. It plays a central role in capturing light energy and converting it into chemical energy.
- Enzyme Activation: Magnesium is involved in the activation of numerous enzymes that drive metabolic processes within plants.
- Phosphorus Utilization: Magnesium helps plants efficiently use phosphorus, another crucial nutrient, by aiding in its uptake and transport.
- Energy Transfer: Magnesium is necessary for the conversion of light energy during photosynthesis into chemical energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate).
When Plants Need Magnesium: Magnesium is needed by plants throughout their lifecycle. It’s particularly important during periods of rapid growth and when plants are actively photosynthesizing:
- Early Growth: Magnesium is essential for the development of young leaves and shoots.
- Photosynthesis: Since magnesium is a core component of chlorophyll, it’s vital for plants’ ability to perform photosynthesis and produce energy.
- Fruit and Seed Formation: Magnesium plays a role in the development of fruits and seeds, supporting their growth and maturation.
Providing a consistent supply of both calcium and magnesium is crucial to ensure healthy plant growth, proper development, and optimal yield. If you’re growing in coco coir or other mediums, it’s important to choose nutrient formulations that account for the specific nutrient needs of your chosen medium.
Why some nutrients brands offer one formula for all plant’s life stages?
Some nutrient brands do offer a single formulation for all stages of plant growth in coco coir, and this approach is based on the belief that the unique properties of coco coir can simplify nutrient management. Here are a few reasons why some brands might offer a single coco coir nutrient formulation for all growth stages:
- Simplified Nutrient Management: Providing a single nutrient formula for all growth stages can simplify the nutrient management process for growers. This approach eliminates the need for switching between different formulas as plants transition from vegetative growth to flowering.
- Balanced Nutrient Ratios: Some nutrient manufacturers design their single formulation to provide a balanced ratio of nutrients that meets the needs of plants throughout their entire lifecycle. This can help prevent nutrient imbalances or deficiencies that might arise from switching between different formulas.
- Coco Coir’s Buffering Capacity: Coco coir has a buffering capacity that can help maintain a more stable pH and nutrient availability. Some brands may believe that the buffering capacity of coco coir reduces the need for drastic changes in nutrient formulations between growth stages.
- Customer Convenience: Offering a single formula can be more convenient for growers who prefer a straightforward approach to nutrient application. It eliminates the need to purchase multiple nutrient products for different growth stages.
It’s important to note that while some brands offer a single coco coir nutrient formulation for all growth stages, others believe that providing separate formulas for vegetative and flowering stages can better address the changing nutrient requirements of plants as they progress through their lifecycle.
What to look for when choosing a nutriant for Coco coir?
When choosing nutrients for plants grown in coco coir, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure optimal plant growth and development. Here are some key aspects to look for when selecting coco coir nutrients:
- Coco Coir-Specific Formulation: Opt for nutrients that are specifically formulated for plants grown in coco coir. These formulations take into account the unique properties of coco coir and provide nutrients that cater to its characteristics.
- Complete Macronutrients and Micronutrients: Ensure that the nutrient formulation includes a balance of primary nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium), secondary nutrients (calcium, magnesium, sulfur), and essential micronutrients (iron, zinc, copper, etc.). A well-rounded nutrient profile supports healthy plant growth.
- Balanced NPK Ratios: Look for a nutrient formulation with balanced ratios of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) to support different growth stages. While some brands offer a single formula for all stages, others offer separate formulations for vegetative and flowering phases.
- Secondary Nutrient Enrichment: Coco coir can retain calcium and magnesium, so nutrients for coco coir should provide higher levels of these secondary nutrients to counteract potential deficiencies.
- pH Stability: Check if the nutrient formulation includes pH stabilizers or adjusters. Coco coir can influence pH levels in nutrient solutions, and a stabilizer helps maintain the optimal pH range for nutrient uptake.
- Trace Elements: Ensure the formulation includes essential micronutrients required in smaller quantities. These micronutrients are crucial for various plant metabolic processes.
- Chelated Micronutrients: Chelated micronutrients are more readily available to plants. Look for nutrients with chelated micronutrients to enhance nutrient uptake.
- Compatibility with Coco Coir: Read product descriptions and user reviews to verify that the nutrient formulation is well-suited for growing in coco coir. Positive feedback from coco coir growers can be a good indicator.
- Ease of Use: Consider the ease of mixing and applying the nutrients. Some brands offer concentrated solutions that are easy to dilute for use.
- Brand Reputation: Choose well-established nutrient brands with a positive reputation in the hydroponic and gardening community. Brands with a history of producing quality products are more likely to provide effective nutrients.
- User Feedback: Read reviews and testimonials from other growers who have used the nutrients. Their experiences can offer insights into the performance of the product.
- Feeding Schedule and Guidelines: Look for clear feeding instructions and recommended dosage guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Proper dosing is crucial to avoid over-fertilization or nutrient deficiencies.
Remember that every growing environment is unique, so it’s a good idea to start with the recommended dosage and adjust based on your observations of plant growth and overall health. Consulting with fellow growers or hydroponic experts can also provide valuable insights into nutrient choices that work well in your specific circumstances.
When growing plants in the vegetative stage in coco coir with an 18/6 light cycle (18 hours of light followed by 6 hours of darkness), the frequency of feeding can vary based on factors such as plant size, pot size, environmental conditions, and the specific nutrient formulation you’re using. However, a general guideline for feeding frequency in coco coir during the vegetative stage is to water and feed the plants multiple times per day. Here’s a typical approach:
- Multiple Daily Feedings: Coco coir has good water retention properties but also allows for good drainage, promoting oxygenation of the roots. Because of this, it’s common to provide multiple small feedings throughout the day to ensure consistent moisture and nutrient availability.
- 2-4 Feedings: Many growers opt for feeding the plants 2 to 4 times per day during the vegetative stage. This helps maintain a stable moisture level in the coco coir, prevents over-saturation or drying out, and provides the plants with a steady supply of nutrients.
- Timing: Spread out the feedings evenly over the light period (18 hours) to mimic the plant’s natural metabolic activity. For example, you might feed every 4-6 hours.
- Monitor the Plants: While this feeding frequency is common, it’s important to closely monitor your plants. Observe their response to the feeding schedule and adjust if necessary. Pay attention to signs of overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient imbalances.
- Runoff and pH: Since coco coir can influence pH levels, it’s recommended to monitor the pH of your nutrient solution and the runoff to ensure nutrient uptake is optimal. Adjust the pH of your nutrient solution as needed.
- Plant Size and Growth Stage: As your plants grow larger, their water and nutrient needs will increase. Adjust the frequency and volume of feedings accordingly.
Remember that individual plants can have different water and nutrient requirements, so it’s essential to pay attention to the specific needs of your plants. Additionally, be cautious not to overwater, as coco coir can hold onto moisture quite effectively. Regularly monitoring your plants’ health and the coco coir’s moisture level will guide you in providing the right amount of water and nutrients.
During the flowering stage of plants grown in coco coir with a 12/12 light cycle (12 hours of light followed by 12 hours of darkness), the feeding strategy and frequency may need to be adjusted to accommodate the changing needs of the plants. Here’s a general guideline for feeding frequency during the flowering stage in coco coir:
- Maintain Multiple Daily Feedings: Just as in the vegetative stage, maintaining multiple daily feedings is generally a good approach during the flowering stage as well. This helps ensure consistent moisture, nutrient availability, and optimal root oxygenation.
- Adjust Nutrient Composition: Switch to a flowering-specific nutrient formula that is higher in phosphorus and potassium. These nutrients support flower and fruit development.
- 2-4 Feedings: Similar to the vegetative stage, consider providing 2 to 4 feedings per day during the flowering stage. The goal is to maintain a stable moisture level while preventing overwatering or underwatering.
- Timing: Spread out the feedings evenly over the 12-hour light period. For instance, you might feed every 3-4 hours.
- Monitor Runoff and pH: Continue monitoring the pH of your nutrient solution and runoff. Adjust pH levels as needed to optimize nutrient uptake.
- Observe Plant Development: As your plants transition to the flowering stage, their nutrient requirements change. Pay attention to the growth of flowers and fruits. Adjust nutrient concentrations and feedings if you notice any signs of deficiencies or imbalances.
- Flush Periodically: Depending on the nutrient buildup in your growing medium, it’s a good practice to perform periodic flushes with plain pH-balanced water to prevent nutrient buildup and maintain nutrient uptake efficiency.
- Tailor to Plant Size: Larger plants might require slightly more frequent feedings or higher nutrient concentrations. Adjust the feeding strategy based on the specific needs of your plants.
Remember that individual plants and strains can have unique nutrient requirements, so it’s crucial to closely observe your plants’ responses to your feeding regimen. Look for signs of nutrient deficiencies, excesses, or overall plant health issues. Regular monitoring and adjustments based on plant observations will help you provide the right nutrients and water to achieve successful flowering and harvest. And remember never to water in the night, make sure the last feeding is scheduled about an hour before lights off.
When growing plants in coco coir, choosing the right type of pots is essential for promoting healthy root growth, proper drainage, and overall plant development. Here are some pot options that work well with coco coir:
- Fabric Pots (Smart Pots, Fabric Grow Bags): Fabric pots are popular among coco coir growers because they offer excellent air pruning. The fabric material allows air to reach the roots, preventing root circling and promoting a healthy root structure. They also provide good drainage and can help prevent overwatering.
- Plastic Nursery Pots: Standard plastic nursery pots are a common choice for coco coir cultivation. They come in various sizes and have drainage holes at the bottom. Make sure to choose pots with sufficient drainage to avoid waterlogging.
- Air Pruning Pots: Air pruning pots are designed to encourage air pruning of the roots. These pots have ridges or openings that allow air to reach the root tips, preventing root circling and promoting the growth of new, healthy roots.
- Coco Coir Grow Bags: Some manufacturers offer specially designed coco coir grow bags. These bags are often made from a mix of materials, including coco coir, and are designed to promote healthy root growth while providing good drainage.
- Hemp Pots or Biodegradable Pots: Biodegradable pots made from materials like hemp or other natural fibers can be a sustainable choice. These pots can be transplanted directly into the growing medium, reducing transplant shock.
- Containers with Drainage: Regardless of the material, ensure that the pots have proper drainage holes at the bottom. Adequate drainage prevents waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and other issues.
When selecting pots, consider the size of your plants, their growth stage, and the available space. Larger plants may require larger pots to accommodate their root systems. Additionally, ensure that the pots are clean and sterilized before planting to prevent the introduction of pests or diseases.
Whichever pot type you choose, remember to monitor the moisture level in the coco coir and adjust your watering frequency accordingly. Proper drainage and airflow around the roots are key factors in promoting healthy plant growth in coco coir.
The 70/30 coco coir to perlite blend is a popular choice among growers for several reasons, but it’s not necessarily the only or best blend for all situations. Different coco coir blends offer various benefits depending on the specific needs of your plants, your growing environment, and your cultivation goals. Here are some reasons why the 70/30 coco coir to perlite blend is commonly used, as well as considerations for other potential blends:
Advantages of 70/30 Coco Coir to Perlite Blend:
- Aeration and Drainage: Perlite is a lightweight, porous material that improves aeration and drainage in the growing medium. This helps prevent overwatering and promotes oxygenation of the roots, reducing the risk of root diseases.
- Root Oxygenation: The presence of perlite in the mix increases airspace between particles, providing oxygen to the root zone and promoting healthy root growth.
- Buffering: The perlite component can help buffer the coco coir against compaction, which can occur over time as coco coir settles.
- Weight Reduction: The addition of perlite reduces the overall weight of the growing medium, making it easier to manage and move pots.
- Moisture Retention: While coco coir retains moisture well, the addition of perlite can help prevent waterlogged conditions and enhance the medium’s moisture-holding capacity.
Other Blends to Consider:
- 100% Coco Coir: Some growers opt for pure coco coir without perlite. This blend provides good water retention and nutrient-holding capacity. However, it might require more careful watering management to prevent overwatering.
- Different Perlite Ratios: Depending on your specific needs, you can adjust the ratio of coco coir to perlite. For example, a 60/40 or 50/50 blend might provide more aeration and drainage, suitable for plants that require excellent root oxygenation.
- Coco Coir with Vermiculite: Vermiculite is another lightweight and moisture-absorbing material that can be mixed with coco coir. This blend might suit plants that require consistently moist conditions.
- Coco Coir with Rice Husks: Some growers incorporate rice husks into their coco coir blend to enhance drainage and aeration while also providing additional organic matter.
The choice of blend depends on factors like the type of plants you’re growing, your local climate, your watering habits, and your preference for managing the medium. Experimenting with different blends and observing how your plants respond can help you find the best coco coir blend for your specific growing environment and goals.
Can I mix Coco coir with soil? And why would I do so?
Yes, you can mix coco coir with soil, and there are several reasons why growers choose to do so. The mixture of coco coir and soil is often referred to as a “soilless” or “coco-soil” blend. This blend combines the benefits of both mediums and can be advantageous in certain growing scenarios. Here’s why some growers mix coco coir with soil:
- Improved Drainage and Aeration: Coco coir’s excellent drainage and aeration properties can enhance the structure of heavy soils that might be prone to compaction and poor drainage. The addition of coco coir can help prevent waterlogging and create a more oxygen-rich environment for roots.
- Water Retention: Soil, especially sandy soil, can struggle to retain moisture. Mixing coco coir into the soil can improve its water-holding capacity, helping to maintain consistent moisture levels around plant roots.
- pH Buffering: Coco coir has a natural pH buffering capacity that can help stabilize soil pH. This can be especially useful in soils with pH imbalances, as coco coir tends to counteract extreme pH levels.
- Root Growth: The combination of soil and coco coir can promote healthier root growth due to improved aeration and the prevention of waterlogging. This can lead to better nutrient uptake and overall plant development.
- Container Gardening: For container gardening, a coco-soil mix can provide a balance between soil structure and improved drainage, allowing for healthier root systems in pots.
- Container Weight: Mixing coco coir with soil can reduce the weight of the growing medium, making containers easier to move and manage.
- Amending Poor Soil: If your native soil is of poor quality, adding coco coir can enhance its structure, nutrient retention, and drainage.
- Transitioning to Hydroponics: For gardeners transitioning from traditional soil gardening to hydroponics or soilless systems, using a coco-soil blend can help ease the transition by maintaining some soil-like characteristics.
When mixing coco coir with soil, it’s important to find the right balance that suits your specific plants and growing environment. Experiment with different ratios of coco coir to soil and closely monitor your plants’ response. Keep in mind that the specific benefits will depend on the initial quality of your soil and the specific needs of the plants you’re growing.
How Long does Coco coir mix last?
The longevity of a coco-perlite mix depends on several factors, including the quality of the mix, how well it’s managed, and the growing conditions. Generally, a well-maintained coco-perlite mix can be used for multiple growing cycles before it starts to degrade or lose its effectiveness. Here are some considerations for how long you can use a coco-perlite mix:
- Quality of Coco Coir and Perlite: The quality of the coco coir and perlite you use initially plays a significant role in how long the mix will remain effective. High-quality materials tend to maintain their structure and properties for a longer time.
- Root Accumulation and Degradation: Over time, plant roots and microorganisms can break down the coco coir and perlite mixture. This process can lead to a decrease in drainage, aeration, and nutrient-holding capacity.
- Nutrient Buildup: As you repeatedly use the coco-perlite mix, nutrients can accumulate in the growing medium. This can affect nutrient availability and pH balance over time.
- Compaction: With each growth cycle, the coco-perlite mix can become more compacted. This reduces its ability to provide proper aeration and drainage to the roots.
- Pathogens and Pests: Over multiple cycles, pathogens and pests can accumulate in the growing medium. This can lead to an increased risk of diseases and infestations.
- pH and Nutrient Imbalances: Over time, the pH buffering capacity of the coco coir may diminish, leading to pH fluctuations in the growing medium.
Considering these factors, many growers find that a well-maintained coco-perlite mix can be used for around 2 to 3 growing cycles before it’s advisable to refresh or replace the medium. However, some experienced growers might push this limit further with proper maintenance and periodic amendments.
To extend the lifespan of your coco-perlite mix:
- Regularly monitor the health of your plants and the condition of the growing medium.
- Maintain proper pH and nutrient levels in your feedings to prevent imbalances.
- Periodically flush the growing medium with plain pH-balanced water to prevent nutrient buildup.
- Consider incorporating fresh coco coir or perlite into the mix to rejuvenate it between cycles.
Ultimately, your observation of the plants’ health, growth, and the overall condition of the mix will guide you in deciding when it’s time to refresh or replace the coco-perlite mix.
Sterilizing your coco-perlite mix between growing cycles is a good practice to prevent the buildup of pathogens, pests, and disease-causing organisms. Here are some methods you can use to sterilize your growing medium:
- Steam Sterilization: Steam sterilization is an effective method to kill pathogens, pests, and weed seeds. You can use a steam sterilizer or a large pot with a lid. Fill the pot with the coco-perlite mix and steam it for about 30 minutes. This process will help eliminate most microorganisms.
- Baking: You can also sterilize the coco-perlite mix by baking it in the oven. Spread the mix on a baking sheet and bake at a temperature of around 180-200°F (82-93°C) for about 30 minutes. Make sure not to overheat, as it could alter the properties of the coco coir.
- Solarization: Solarization involves using the sun’s heat to kill pathogens and pests. Spread the coco-perlite mix in a thin layer in a sunny area and cover it with a clear plastic tarp. The heat buildup under the tarp will help eliminate unwanted organisms over a period of several weeks.
- Chemical Sterilization: You can use hydrogen peroxide or a diluted bleach solution to sterilize the coco-perlite mix. However, this method can be challenging to achieve without damaging the growing medium or affecting plant health. Use caution and follow guidelines for proper dilution and application.
- Replace a Portion of the Mix: Another approach is to replace a portion of the coco-perlite mix with fresh, sterile coco coir and perlite. This helps dilute any potential contaminants and refreshes the growing medium.
After sterilization, it’s essential to rehydrate the coco-perlite mix before using it again. Moisten the mixture with pH-balanced water until it’s at the appropriate moisture level for planting.
Keep in mind that sterilization methods can affect the physical properties of the growing medium, such as its water-holding capacity and structure.
Choose the sterilization method that suits your resources and situation best, and always monitor your plants closely for any signs of stress or problems after reusing the coco-perlite mix.
Cleaning the roots of old plants before reusing a coco-perlite mix is generally a good practice, as it helps remove any remaining debris, dead roots, and potential disease sources. Cleaning the roots can promote a healthier environment for new plants in the next growing cycle. Here’s how to clean the roots of old plants before reusing the coco-perlite mix:
- Remove the Old Plant: Carefully remove the old plant from the coco-perlite mix. Gently pull it out to avoid disturbing the mix too much.
- Inspect the Roots: Examine the roots for signs of disease, pests, or rot. If you notice any discolored or damaged roots, trim them away using clean, sterilized scissors or pruning shears.
- Rinse the Roots: Take the plant to an area where you can rinse the roots. Use lukewarm, pH-balanced water to gently wash away any soil, coco coir, or perlite clinging to the roots.
- Sterilize if Necessary: If you suspect disease or pest issues, you might consider sterilizing the roots further. You can soak the roots in a diluted hydrogen peroxide solution (1 part hydrogen peroxide to 3 parts water) for a short period (15-30 minutes). Rinse thoroughly with clean water afterward.
- Allow to Dry: After rinsing and sterilizing (if applicable), allow the roots to air-dry for a while. Excessive moisture can promote the growth of unwanted organisms.
- Rehydrate and Inspect Coco-Perlite Mix: Before replanting, rehydrate the coco-perlite mix to the appropriate moisture level. Inspect the mix for any signs of contamination, pests, or disease. If the mix appears healthy, you can proceed with replanting.
- Replanting: Plant your new crop in the cleaned and rehydrated coco-perlite mix. Gently spread the roots and place the plant in the container, filling in with the mix around the root ball.
By cleaning the roots and sterilizing if necessary, you reduce the risk of carrying over problems from the previous growing cycle. This preparation creates a fresh start for your new plants, providing them with a clean and healthy environment to thrive.
Thanks for reading, and keep growing, Peace ☮️.