When it comes to growing, the choice of medium is one of the most important decisions you need to make. Two popular choices among growers are coconut fiber (coco) and soil. Both have their unique benefits and challenges, and it’s important to understand the differences so you can get the most out of your grow. In this guide, we’ll focus on what you need to know about growing in coco versus soil and why coco can be an excellent choice – especially when combined with the right nutrients.
I. Coco: A Powerful but Demanding Medium
1. What is Coco?
Coco is made from coconut fiber, which is a by-product of coconuts. It is a sustainable and environmentally friendly medium that is becoming increasingly popular among growers. Coco is known for its excellent drainage and airiness, creating an ideal environment for the roots. But while coco has many advantages, it also requires a bit more attention than soil. 2. Watering needs in Coco
One of the biggest differences between coco and soil is watering frequency. Coco has excellent drainage, which means it dries out faster than soil. This is good for the roots of the plants as they get plenty of oxygen, but it also means you need to water more often. Where in soil you might only water a couple of times a week, in coco you should expect to water daily or even several times a day, depending on the conditions. 3. Nutrients from Day 1
When growing in soil, the medium usually contains enough nutrients to support plant growth for the first 10-14 days. This provides a slightly more forgiving start for beginners. In coco it’s different. Coco is an inert medium, which means it contains no natural nutrients. Therefore, you need to start feeding from day 1 to ensure your plants get what they need. However, with the right nutrients, coco can be incredibly easy to work with and can produce impressive results.
II. Benefits of Coco
1. excellent drainage
Coco’s ability to drain excess water is one of its greatest benefits. This helps prevent root problems such as root rot and provides the roots with an oxygen-rich environment that promotes rapid growth. Coco also retains moisture, so even though it dries out faster than soil, it still gives plants constant access to water between watering. 2. Perfect for Drip Watering and Ebb and Flow Systems
Coco is an excellent choice if you use automated watering systems such as drip watering or ebb and flow. With Coco, these systems can optimize the water and nutrient supply to plants, leading to faster growth and better yields. Coco’s fast drainage and ability to retain moisture makes it ideal for these types of systems where precision is key. 3. Sustainable and Recyclable
Another advantage of coco is its sustainability. Coco is a renewable material and it can be recycled multiple times, making it an environmentally friendly choice. After each growing cycle, coco can be processed and recycled, reducing waste and saving money in the long run.
III. Earth: The More Forgiving Option
1. Natural Nutrients
Soil is often seen as the more forgiving option, especially for beginners. Soil naturally contains a range of nutrients and microorganisms that can support plant growth for the first few weeks without the need for additional fertilizer. This provides a slightly slower but stable start for the plants to establish themselves. 2. Less Frequent Watering
Soil retains moisture longer than coco, which means you don’t need to water as often. This can be an advantage for growers who don’t have the option to water daily or who want a more low-maintenance method. 3. More Forgiving to Mistakes
The natural properties of the soil provide a greater buffer against growing mistakes, like over or under fertilization. If you make a mistake with your nutrients, the soil often has the capacity to absorb or balance this, giving you time to correct it.
IV. Which medium should you choose?
The choice between coco and soil depends largely on your needs and experience. If you’re up for the challenge and want to maximize your yield, coco can be the right choice – especially if you use our specially developed nutrients that make it super easy to grow in coco. If you prefer a more forgiving approach, or if you’re a beginner, soil can be a great place to start. However, with the right knowledge and tools, coco can be just as easy, if not easier, than growing in soil and can yield amazing results. Whatever medium you choose, the most important thing is to understand its unique properties and requirements to ensure a successful grow from start to finish.
