To use coco grow coir compost, you first need to hydrate and expand the compressed material following a few simple steps.
Using compressed coco grow coir compost involves a straightforward process of rehydrating the material to prepare it for planting or mixing with other substrates.
Preparing Compressed Coco Coir
Follow these steps to transform your compressed coco coir block into a light, fluffy growing medium:
- Remove all packaging around the compressed coco coir block. Remember to recycle the packaging appropriately.
- Place the compressed block in a large container or bucket. This container needs to be large enough to hold the expanded coir, which will increase significantly in volume.
- Add 2-3 litres of warm water directly to the container with the compressed block. Using warm water helps the coir absorb moisture and expand more quickly.
- Allow the coir to soak for some time (usually 15-30 minutes) to fully absorb the water.
- Break up and stir the soaked material thoroughly. Use your hands or a trowel to fluff it up and ensure all parts are hydrated, creating a light, open mixture.
Once these steps are completed and the material is evenly moist and loose, the coco coir is now ready to use as a potting mix, soil amendment, or base for custom soil blends.
What is Prepared Coco Coir Used For?
Prepared coco coir is an excellent, peat-free alternative commonly used in gardening and horticulture. Its applications include:
- Potting Mix: Used on its own or mixed with other components like perlite, vermiculite, or compost to create a well-draining potting mix for various plants.
- Seed Starting: Its fine texture and moisture retention make it suitable for germinating seeds.
- Soil Amendment: Mixed into garden soil to improve aeration, drainage, and water retention, particularly in sandy or clay soils.
- Hydroponics/Soilless Growing: Often used as a substrate in various hydroponic systems.
Preparation Quick Guide
Here's a quick summary of the water requirement:
| Action | Water Needed |
|---|---|
| Rehydrating compressed coir | 2-3 litres of warm water |
Using coco coir properly ensures your plants benefit from its excellent water-holding capacity and aeration properties, contributing to healthy root development.
